Unlock Your Perfect Smile with Expert Crown Lengthening in Tampa, Florida
At Happy Smiles in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Mamata Ponnaganti and the team know that a balanced smile isn’t just about straight, white teeth—it’s also about the right proportions of teeth to gums. If you feel your teeth look too short or your gumline appears uneven, crown lengthening could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Our experienced team combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to reshape your gums and expose more of your natural tooth structure. Below, we’ve answered the top questions about crown lengthening to help you decide if this procedure is right for you.
What is crown lengthening, and why is it performed?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue—and sometimes a small amount of bone—to expose more of the tooth’s visible surface. This is done for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Cosmetically, it balances your smile by correcting a “gummy” appearance. Functionally, it creates enough healthy tooth structure above the gumline to support a dental crown, bridge, or filling, ensuring the long-term success of your restorations.
How is the crown lengthening procedure done?
After numbing the treatment area with local anesthesia, our periodontist makes precise incisions in the gum tissue to gently lift and remove the excess gingiva. If necessary, a small amount of supporting bone is also reshaped to maintain a stable gum-to-tooth ratio. The gums are carefully repositioned and sutured once the desired tooth length is achieved. Most procedures take just one to two hours, depending on the number of teeth involved and the complexity of your case.
How do I care for my gums after crown lengthening?
Proper postoperative care is essential for fast healing and optimal results. We recommend rinsing gently with a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash and avoiding vigorous brushing near the surgical site for the first week. Stick to soft foods—like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies—and avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy items that could irritate your gums. Attend all follow-up visits so we can monitor healing and remove sutures when appropriate.
Can crown lengthening improve my chances for a successful dental crown or restoration?
Absolutely. By increasing the amount of healthy tooth structure above the gumline, crown lengthening provides a solid foundation for crowns, bridges, and fillings. This prevents future issues like crown dislodgement, decay under the restoration, or gum inflammation. Properly executed crown lengthening maximizes the longevity and stability of your dental work, saving you time and reducing the risk of complications.
Are there any risks or complications associated with crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a routine periodontal surgery with a high success rate, but as with any procedure, there are potential risks. These may include temporary sensitivity, minor bleeding, or slight swelling during the initial healing phase. Our skilled team takes every precaution—using gentle techniques and thorough planning—to minimize risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
Ready to reveal your most radiant, balanced smile? Call Happy Smiles in Tampa, FL, at (813) 743-4520 to schedule your crown lengthening consultation. Let us help you achieve the perfect harmony of teeth and gums for a healthier, more confident you!
