Crown Lengthening near Las Vegas, NV

Dr. Michaela Tozzi, DMD is a leading Las Vegas dentist who provides cosmetic and advanced dental care, such as crown lengthening to enhance the look and health of your smile. Crown lengthening may be a confusing term to some since it sounds like it involves making the tooth longer. A more precise term would be crown exposure because gum tissue is removed to reveal more of the enamel. You might consider crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons if you'd like to fix a "gummy" smile. It could also be performed if not enough of your enamel is visible to support a filling, crown, or another restoration. To get more information, schedule a consultation at Michaela Tozzi, DMD in Henderson, NV.

Crown lengthening offers an effective way to help you achieve a beautiful new smile and improve your oral health with a number of great benefits, including:

• Creates a more proportionate, symmetrical gum line
• Reduces the appearance of a "gummy" smile
• Typically only requires one appointment
• Procedure is quick (about 45 minutes)
• Can help treat and/or prevent periodontal disease

Candidates for crown lengthening are in good overall health, particularly when it comes to the gums. Issues, like gum (periodontal) disease, might have to be addressed before crown lengthening can be performed. Most frequently, crown lengthening is performed for aesthetic reasons to fix a "gummy" smile. In such instances, excess gum tissue can be eliminated to balance the ratio of gum tissue to enamel and offer you a more proportionate-looking gumline. However, crown lengthening may also be needed to complete a dental restoration. Dr. Tozzi might want to reveal more of your tooth to properly place a bridge, crown, or filling.

Before the procedure starts, local anesthesia is applied to the target area to minimize your discomfort. An additional sedative may also be incorporated to help keep you calm and relaxed during your procedure. During your initial consultation, talk to our team about your concerns and dental anxieties so we can review all of your sedation options. Once you are prepped, Dr. Tozzi will gradually remove excess gum tissue to reveal more of your teeth. Your gumline will also be contoured to create a sculpted and natural appearance. Once Dr. Tozzi has finished, she will have you close and rinse your mouth with a special dental solution.

Following your procedure, your mouth may be sore and inflamed, but these sensations are normal and can be eased with a cold compress. Dr. Tozzi may also provide a prescription for antibiotics or pain relievers to aid in your healing process. To help keep you more comfortable, we recommend that you keep to a soft or liquid food diet for a few days while your mouth heals. You should also take great care when brushing or flossing. Be gentle on your gums as they will be tender. Our office will set up a follow-up appointment so Dr. Tozzi can monitor your progress and make sure there aren't any complications. 

The cost for a crown lengthening procedure will differ, depending on why it is being performed. Dental insurance companies may cover a portion of the cost in some scenarios, but they might not. In any event, our financial team will get in touch with your provider to determine what your out-of-pocket costs will be prior to discussing your choices for payment. If you do not have insurance, we can help estimate your costs and give you information on low-interest medical financing that may help to make your treatment more affordable.

Does crown lengthening hurt?
Crown lengthening should not be painful during the procedure. Dr. Tozzi will numb the treatment area with an anesthetic before your crown lengthening begins. If you are worried about pain, you can possible sedation options during your consultation with Dr. Tozzi at our Henderson, NV office. After the procedure, your gums may be sore and swollen. Dr. Tozzi recommends ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers to help control any possible discomfort during the recovery process. In some cases, she may prescribe pain medications.

How long does the crown lengthening procedure last?
The length of the crown lengthening procedure will depend on the number of teeth treated. In general, the procedure typically takes between 45 – 90 minutes.

How long is the recovery process from crown lengthening? What directions will I need to follow?
The average full healing time for crown lengthening is about 2 – 3 months. You’ll be able to return to normal activities fairly quickly. For at least 2 – 3 days after your procedure, you’ll need to avoid strenuous exercise and activities. Some recommendations for recovery from a crown lengthening procedure include:

• Avoiding hot foods and liquids for the first 24 hours
• Following a soft food or liquid diet for 3 – 4 days as directed
• Giving up spicy, acidic, hard, crunchy foods
• No alcohol
• Staying away from smoking or using tobacco products
• Brushing your teeth gently with a soft brush while using mouthwash to rinse
• Forgoing flossing the treatment area until healing is well underway

How does Dr. Tozzi assess a patient's need for crown lengthening?
Dr. Michaela Tozzi thoroughly evaluates each patient's oral health to determine the need for crown lengthening. She considers several factors, such as the patient's oral health history, the condition of the tooth or teeth in question, and aesthetic considerations. This might involve a visual examination, dental X-rays, or other diagnostic tests to make an accurate assessment.

What technologies are used during a crown lengthening procedure?
Dr. Tozzi uses state-of-the-art dental technologies during crown lengthening procedures. These can include advanced imaging tools for detailed assessment and precision instruments for the procedure. Such technology aids in enhancing the precision of the procedure, reducing tissue trauma, and ensuring optimal outcomes.

What are the different methods of contacting Michaela Tozzi, DMD to schedule a consultation for crown lengthening?
Those seeking a consultation with Dr. Tozzi for crown lengthening can reach out to her clinic in Las Vegas through multiple avenues. Contact details can be found on the main page of our website, where patients can choose to make a phone call, send an email, or even schedule an appointment online. Dr. Tozzi's team ensures that all communication is responded to promptly and professionally.

To transform your smile or restore your mouth, learn more information on crown lengthening treatments at Michaela Tozzi, DMD in Henderson, NV. By removing gum tissue, you can enhance the look of a "gummy" smile or prepare your teeth for a dental restoration. If you live in or near Las Vegas, NV, schedule a consultation with Dr. Tozzi to decide if you're a candidate for cosmetic or restorative crown lengthening. We look forward to meeting you.