Do I Need Crown Lengthening?
There are a few main reasons why one might need crown lengthening. Before we begin, you may wonder, what is crown lengthening to begin with? Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that exposes more of the tooth beneath the gum. Dental surgeons recontour the gum tissue, and even sometimes the bone, to expose more of the tooth’s surface for a crown. This is a fairly common procedure and only takes about an hour to complete.
There are three main reasons why your dentist may recommend it:
- If you require a dental crown, but there is no available tooth structure
- To minimize an overly gummy smile
- Or you are susceptible to tooth decay
Dental Crown
The most common reason for crown lengthening is to support a crown. If your tooth is weak, damaged, or even chipped, the quick procedure can solve that issue. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap. If your tooth isn’t long enough to support that cap, your gums may need to be lifted back to expose more of the tooth.
Gummy Smile
This procedure can also be done for cosmetic reasons, such as limiting an excessive gingival or “gummy smile.” This is when someone has a great amount of gum tissue on top of their teeth that appears when smiling. If you can relate to this, reach out to your dentist; you might be a great candidate for the procedure.
Tooth Decay
When a tooth has excessive decay or a fracture that goes below the gumline, the crown lengthening procedure may be necessary to expose the area and treat it. Once the gums are pulled back, this allows for more comfort and hygiene.
How much does this procedure cost?
The cost of a crown lengthening procedure depends on multiple factors, beginning with how many teeth are involved. In most cases, it will cost between $500-$2,000 per tooth. Another factor that affects the cost is the extent of the procedure. Some procedures may only involve reshaping of the gums, while others might require reshaping of the tooth. The more advanced the procedure, the more costly it will be due to the time and skill necessary. Another common factor is the type of anaesthesia. Oftentimes, a crown lengthening procedure is done under local anaesthesia, but if the patient requires general anaesthesia, that will cost more. If you have dental insurance and need the procedure for tooth restoration, they may help you with all or a portion of the cost and come up with a payment plan. If the procedure is for cosmetic reasons, your insurance is likely to cover less than if it is for dental health reasons. The price often includes the procedure as well as any follow-up care.
If you are someone who is looking to improve your smile or to support long-term oral health, this might be a recommended procedure for you by your dentist. It is also important to speak to your dentist about their recommended plan and get a very detailed cost estimate. It is necessary that you understand how the different factors can affect the cost to help you decide what is right for you, your oral health, and your budget.
Related Article: What is the Crown Lengthening Procedure?