Periodontal Plastic Surgery

Esthetic vs. Functional Crown Lengthening

Esthetic Crown Lengthening

This relatively simple procedure usually takes about an hour to perform and is essentially a “gum lift”. During the procedure, the doctor removes excess gum and bone tissue and reshapes the smile to expose more of the natural tooth. While the procedure can be performed on just one tooth, it is most often done to the entire smile. The end result is that more of the natural tooth is exposed creating a wider, more beautiful smile.

Functional Crown Lengthening

Functional crown lengthening is needed in order to perform cosmetic or restorative procedures if a tooth is too far decayed, broken below the gumline, or has insufficient structure for restoration. In cases like this, the doctor will reshape the gums and supporting bone to allow for adequate room to place a high quality restoration.

Cosmetic Gum Surgery Can Change the Appearance and Function of Your Mouth

Have you noticed that your teeth seem to be shorter than you would like? Whether you want to improve your teeth for aesthetic or functional reasons (or perhaps both), we can help you achieve the smile you desire through cosmetic gum surgery.

Dr. Alejandro Kovacs and Dr. Tom M. Smith regularly perform a procedure called crown lengthening in Longview, TX. This procedure enables patients to have the teeth they desire without needing to completely replace any teeth. During this process, the gums are essentially shortened surgically, making the natural teeth look longer and healthier.

Esthetic vs. Functional Cosmetic Gum Surgery

For some patients, crown lengthening in Longview, TX is performed for looks. For others, it is done for functional reasons. Both result in a great smile of which you can be proud!

During aesthetic cosmetic gum surgery, you will receive what is better known as a “gum lift.” The procedure involves the removal of gum and possibly bone tissue. After the gum and bone are excised, we reshape the gum line so the teeth are better exposed. In general, aesthetic cosmetic gum surgery is performed on all the teeth, not just one tooth, to ensure a dramatic, immediate result.

Functional cosmetic gum surgery is at times required in order to fully restore teeth that are decayed, broken, or structurally insufficient. During this procedure, we remove enough gum tissue and bone to enable the placement of a restoration. Thus, unlike aesthetic cosmetic gum surgery, functional cosmetic gum surgery may occur on only one tooth, and may be part of a multi-session treatment.

As a new patient to our practice, we like to start by getting to know you better.

This begins with a thorough exam that introduces the patients to what a healthy mouth consists of. You should expect an experience unlike most other dental visits; informative and health-centered. Whether you require dental implants, LANAP® Laser Treatment, or any other procedure that we offer, we look forward to providing you with the exceptional oral care that you are looking for. If you have questions, please contact us. You can also send an appointment request through our convenient online form.