Crown Lengthening in Washington, MO

Comprehensive Crown Lengthening Services in Washington

Crown lengthening is a functional and cosmetic procedure in which the gum and sometimes bone are moved to expose more of your natural teeth. This is especially helpful if you have a damaged tooth that needs a crown, but there is not enough surface to perform the procedure effectively. It is also useful for creating a more aesthetic smile by increasing the amount of tooth visible. Our team at Four Rivers Periodontics and Implant Specialists skillfully performs crown lengthening procedures for patients throughout Washington and surrounding areas. We will work with you and your general dentist or orthodontist to develop a customized procedure specific to your unique smile.

When you visit our Washington office, we begin with a detailed evaluation of your gums, teeth, and bite to determine whether a functional or aesthetic crown lengthening procedure is the right option. We consider factors such as your overall gum health, the position of the tooth in relation to the jawbone, and how much tooth structure is needed to support a long-lasting restoration. By carefully planning each step in advance, we help reduce complications and create results that look natural alongside your other teeth.

For many patients, understanding why crown lengthening is recommended makes it easier to feel confident moving forward with treatment. Some people need this procedure to save a tooth that would otherwise require extraction, while others are looking to reduce a “gummy” appearance and create a more balanced smile. Dr. Scully and her team will walk you through these goals in straightforward language, explain how the surgery supports your long-term oral health, and answer questions about timing, general cost ranges, and how it fits into your broader treatment plan with your primary dentist.
 

Call our friendly dental team today at (636) 242-6450 to contact us about our dental crown lengthening procedure in Washington, MO.

Enhance Your Smile with Functional & Aesthetic Crown Lengthening in Washington, MO

After a consultation, Dr. Scully will determine what type of crown lengthening solution is best for you, and we are capable of performing gum grafting, surgical extrusions, bone removal (or osseous crown lengthening), and apically repositioned flap surgeries. Once your surgery is completed, we will walk you through the recovery process and provide thorough post-op instructions, including the best foods to eat and steps to take to minimize pain and swelling.

Each type of procedure is selected based on how much gum tissue or bone needs to be reshaped, and whether the primary goal is to expose additional tooth structure for a new crown or improve the overall balance of your smile. During functional crown lengthening, we focus on creating a stable environment for your future restoration so it can fit securely and be easier to keep clean. For aesthetic cases, we carefully design how much gum line to adjust on each tooth so your smile follows a natural curve that matches your lips and facial features, while also setting your smile up for long term health.

Many patients also appreciate understanding what they will experience on the day of surgery. We explain how we will keep you comfortable, what sensations you may feel, and how long you can expect to be in the office so that you can plan work or family responsibilities. You will leave with written care instructions tailored to your specific procedure as well as guidance on when to return for a follow-up visit, giving you a clear picture of each step from start to finish.

When Crown Lengthening Is Recommended

Crown lengthening may be recommended in several different situations, and knowing which one applies to you can make your consultation feel more productive. Some patients are referred because a tooth has broken close to the gumline or has deep decay that extends under the gum tissue, and a dentist cannot place a secure crown without exposing more structure. Others are seeking a solution for a smile that looks too “gummy,” where the teeth are healthy but appear short because extra gum covers part of the enamel.

By clearly outlining the reasons for treatment, we help you compare crown lengthening with other options your general dentist may have mentioned, such as extraction and replacement. Preserving your natural tooth when possible often supports better chewing function and maintains bone in the area, which can be especially important if you already have other dental work. Our team takes the time to explain these tradeoffs in a way that relates to your daily life, including how different choices may affect your ability to enjoy meals, speak comfortably, and maintain your oral health over the long term.

At Four Rivers Periodontics and Implant Specialists, we take pride in leading the dental industry in innovative and effective treatments and stay up to date on the most advanced equipment and methods on the market. Our compassionate team puts your mind at ease from the moment you walk into our office, creating a welcoming environment from start to finish. No matter the reason for your crown lengthening procedure, you can count on us to deliver an unparalleled and high-quality patient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take?

The duration of the procedure varies depending on the complexity of the case. However, most crown lengthening procedures can be completed in one or two appointments.

How Long Is the Recovery Period After Crown Lengthening?

The recovery period typically lasts a few days to a week. During this time, you may experience some swelling, discomfort, and sensitivity.

Can I Eat and Drink Normally After Crown Lengthening?

It is best to stick to soft foods and avoid hot food or beverages for the first few days after the procedure. As the healing process progresses, you can gradually return to your normal diet.

Will Crown Lengthening Affect My Bite?

Crown lengthening can slightly alter your bite, but your dentist will carefully plan the procedure to minimize any changes. In some cases, minor adjustments may be necessary after the procedure.

Can I Get a Dental Implant After Crown Lengthening?

Yes, crown lengthening can be a necessary step before receiving a dental implant. By exposing more of the neighboring tooth, the dentist can create a stable foundation for the implant.

Discover personalized high-quality crown lengthening services in Washington. Contact our team today at (636) 242-6450 or reach out to us online to schedule your appointment.