Have a smile that you feel self conscious about due to how much of your gums show? If so, this is not a problem that you need to live with forever. There is a dental procedure known as crown lengthening, which will make your smile look natural and improve your confidence. Here is what you need to know about having a crown lengthening procedure done.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

The crown lengthening procedure is done in a single day, and requires anesthesia to be used so that you do not feel any pain. A dentist will make incisions along your gums, which will expose more surface area of your teeth so that they are more visible. The procedure doesn't necessarily require that gum tissue is removed, since all it may require is that the gum tissue is pulled down so more of the natural surface of the teeth are exposed. However, be aware that crown lengthening can be quite extensive. In a severe situation, it can even require that part of the gums or bone that are in the way of the tooth are removed.

How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost?

You can expect the dental procedure to lengthen your crowns to cost as little as $1,500 and around $2,000 on the high end. Unfortunately, this is one dental procedure that will likely not be covered by your dental insurance. This is due to there not being a medical necessity to lengthen the crowns of your teeth, with it being purely for cosmetic purposes. It is always worth contacting your dental insurance provider and find out what is covered. Even a small amount helps, and you may have an allotment for cosmetic procedures where a small percentage is paid.

What Are The Risks Of Crown Lengthening?

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with having a crown lengthening performed. Some common problems include gums that continue to bleed after the procedure is finished and increased sensitivity in the newly exposed parts of the teeth. In some situations, you may get an infection that will require antibiotics to treat. The gums can also swell and turn a red color, which may require the help of a dentist to alleviate the discomfort.

Need more information about crown lengthening before moving forward? Contact dentist services for a consultation. They can look at your teeth, give you an idea about how extensive the procedure will be, and let you know what it will cost.