### What is Crown Lengthening? Crown lengthening, also known as crown extension, is a dental procedure that reshapes your gums and sometimes the bone to expose more of your tooth. This can make your teeth look longer and improve your smile, especially if you have a “gummy” smile. ### Benefits of Crown Lengthening - **Improved Appearance:** It can make your teeth look longer and your smile broader. - **Restorative Needs:** Helps in restoring teeth that are too short for crowns or bridges. - **Cavity Access:** Allows dentists to fill cavities that are buried within the gums. ### Risks of Crown Lengthening - **Pain and Discomfort:** You may experience pain and discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. - **Swelling and Bleeding:** Some swelling and bleeding are common after the procedure. - **Long Recovery Time:** Healing can take several weeks to months depending on the location of the surgery. ### Procedure Types - **Surgical Method:** Uses a scalpel or knife to cut excess gum tissue. - **Laser Method:** Uses lasers to remove gum tissue. - **Electrocautery:** Uses heat generated by an electric current to remove gum tissue. ### Recovery - **Pain Management:** Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help with pain and swelling. - **Oral Hygiene:** Use chlorhexidine mouthwash twice a day to maintain oral hygiene. - **Healing Time:** Healing can take from a few weeks to several months depending on the procedure and location. ### Who Should Avoid It? - People with insufficient gum tissue. - Those who have certain medical conditions that affect healing. Always consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine if crown lengthening is right for you.