Crown Lengthening in Monroe

In certain situations, some of the gum and bone tissue around a tooth crown (the white part of a tooth that is visible above the gumline) needs to be removed to allow for corrective treatments to occur, such as filling a cavity below the gumline.

This is known as “functional crown lengthening.” It is called crown lengthening because in many cases, the natural crown of the tooth will appear longer after removing bone and repositioning the gums.

As a periodontist, Dr. Anzalone is a highly skilled specialist in functional crown lengthening. He takes great care to ensure the treatment is both highly effective and comfortable.

Exposing the Crown to Assist in Tooth Restoration

When a tooth needs a dental restoration due to wear, decay or fracture, enough of the natural crown needs to be exposed so that a restoration can be placed without cutting into the gum line and causing irritation, pain or bleeding. Dr. Anzalone can gently adjust the gum and bone surrounding the tooth and sculpt the tooth surfaces as needed.

Tooth Exposure for Orthodontics

Sometimes teeth fail to break through the gum and move into their natural position on the dental arch. Dr. Anzalone can gently expose the crowns of such teeth and place an orthodontic bracket on them so the orthodontist can bring them into proper alignment. Though primarily done for children and teens, this is occasionally also necessary for adults receiving orthodontic treatment.

Learn more about exposing teeth for orthodontics

Removal of Excess Gum Tissue

Where there is an overgrowth of gum tissue, teeth can be difficult to clean. The most common occurrence of this is as a side effect of certain anti-seizure and blood pressure medications. It will also occasionally happen as a byproduct of orthodontic treatment. Dr. Anzalone will gently remove the excess gum tissue, making it possible to properly clean the teeth and maintain oral health.

Fixing a Gummy Smile

Genetic factors can cause a situation where there is too much bone and gum covering the teeth, and the teeth appear too short as a result. This makes the person appear to have a “gummy smile.” Gummy smiles for many people are a cosmetic concern, but they are also an oral health problem as they make it difficult to clean teeth properly or address tooth damage. Dr. Anzalone gently removes the excess gum and bone covering the teeth and restores a natural, symmetrical gumline that is aesthetically pleasing and much easier to keep healthy.

Learn more about correcting a gummy smile here

To make an appointment, call 318‑460‑5055 or click here to request an appointment online.