Enhance Your Smile with Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening can reduce excess gum tissue that extends onto the teeth, which can make them appear short or uneven, or inhibit their ability to receive a restoration. At our Meridian, MS, practice, Dr. J. Eric Herrington performs each crown lengthening procedure using a laser, which reduces the need for anesthesia and offers more precise gum reshaping. With years of experience, our team offers the utmost in compassionate care for healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Herrington is also one of the only board-certified periodontists in the area.

Crown lengthening can create a more attractive tooth-to-gum ratio or prepare teeth for restorations.
Crown lengthening can create a more attractive tooth-to-gum ratio or prepare teeth for restorations.

About Crown Lengthening

Aesthetically speaking, gums should frame the teeth, rather than be the primary focal point of your smile. Patients who have a “gummy smile” or uneven gums can benefit from crown lengthening, a minimally invasive procedure in which excess gum tissue is removed to reveal more of the tooth’s crown portion. Crown lengthening can also be performed for functional reasons. For example, if a tooth is damaged or decayed at or below the gum line, it is difficult to reach the area to address the problem. In these cases, crown lengthening can be performed to enlarge the treatment area so a dental filling or crown can easily be placed.

What to Expect During Crown Lengthening

To determine your candidacy, Dr. Herrington will perform a thorough evaluation during your initial visit. Each patient is unique, so treatment will be custom-designed for each individual. Measurements and photos will be taken so you can discuss your specific goals, and define your expectations regarding treatment.

By using a laser rather than traditional techniques for crown lengthening, Dr. Herrington can minimize bleeding, swelling, and discomfort throughout treatment.

On the day of your surgery, Dr. Herrington will administer local anesthesia to numb the teeth and gums. Sedation is available for anxious patients or those who are unable to sit still during treatment. Once you are comfortable, he will carefully shape the gums using a special dental laser. Dr. Herrington will remove only the smallest amount of tissue necessary for optimal results. When the process is complete, you will see immediate results.

Most patients experience little to no pain following the procedure. Any discomfort can be typically addressed with over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen. For the first few days, a soft diet is recommended. You will also need to be mindful when brushing or flossing around the surgical areas. Specific post-treatment instructions will be provided for a fast and successful recovery.

Precise Contouring with Dental Lasers

Dr. Herrington strives to implement the latest technology. By using a laser rather than a traditional scalpel for crown lengthening and contouring, we provide our patients with several benefits. Because the laser cauterizes tissue on contact, there is less bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. There is also a reduced risk of infection because the laser eradicates harmful bacteria. Laser treatment also offers greater accuracy and precision when compared to conventional methods.

Benefits of the Procedure

Patients who are embarrassed or self-conscious about their “gummy smile” often cover their mouths when talking or laughing. Crown lengthening can effectively raise and reshape the gums for a beautiful appearance. Because results can be quite dramatic, many patients enjoy a significant confidence boost following the procedure.

Crown lengthening offers health benefits, as well. In addition to preparing broken-down teeth for restorations, the procedure can also make it much easier to clean between the teeth in problematic areas. As a result, there is a reduced risk of periodontal disease.

Schedule a Consultation with Us

You can learn more about whether crown lengthening is right for you during a visit to our practice. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Herrington, call our office at (601) 482-6938 or contact us using our online form.