Esthetic Crown Lengthening

Gingival contouring, also called esthetic crown lengthening, is a dental procedure performed on gums. It involves resculpting the gum line, which alters your appearance. Many people in Houston opt for gingival contouring if uneven gums are causing problems in their daily lives. The gumline may be higher or lower, depending on your preference and our dentists’ recommendation. In either case, knowing all about esthetic crown lengthening before you opt for it is essential. If the situation sounds familiar but you find it hard to decide, Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston can help you make the right choice.

Why Do We Need Esthetic Crown Lengthening?

Gumline refers to the layer of soft tissues that primarily protects your teeth. However, it may have an odd length in some people due to several factors. Your genetics play a substantial role in determining your appearance, so inheriting uneven gums from the family tree is entirely possible.

Your Experience with Esthetic Crown Lengthening

Esthetic crown lengthening does not require much time, and you can have your gingival contouring done in a single visit. It starts with giving you a desensitizing agent, such as local anesthesia, to alleviate the pain. Our dentists then resculpt your gumline using scalpels. The use of lasers for contouring is also common and can be more convenient. Both methods involve the removal of any excess tissue. If you have too little tissue, you may receive a tissue implant from another part of your mouth. The procedure barely takes two hours, after which you are good to go.

Is It Painful On Any Level?

During the procedure, the anesthesia numbs the pain detecting nerves in your mouth. So, other than the discomfort you may feel due to the prolonged mouth opening, it is relatively painless. You may feel inconvenienced when the anesthesia wears off as you go home after your esthetic crown lengthening treatment. However, it is likely to be a minor discomfort in general areas instead of a nerve-wracking toothache. Most people find it manageable, but if you find it difficult, your doctor will advise you on how to deal with it.

What Happens After The Contouring?

Once the esthetic crown lengthening is complete, you will be able to go home and take a rest. The recovery time can range from some days to a few weeks, based on the extent to which your gumline was modified. You may be advised to take rest, speak less, and only take fluids or soft foods in the direct aftermath of the gingival contouring. After some time, you will fully sense your dental health improvement and feel more confident with your refined looks.

Real Patients, Real Experiences.

At Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston, you can find guidance to determine if esthetic crown lengthening is right for you. Should you have any other concerns or want a gingival contouring consultation in Houston, feel free to contact us at (713) 785-9599 or online.