How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost
Having a healthy smile not only looks good but it can positively impact self-confidence. Unfortunately, roughly one third of young Americans are unwilling to show off their smile because of a gummy appearance. Patients that are concerned with the appearance of their smile may be considering a crown lengthening at newark periodontal specialists procedure. The procedure can help restore confidence, but patients may be wondering what the cost crown lengthening is. This article will shed some light on the procedure and its related costs.
What is Crown Lengthening?
A common surgical procedure performed by a dentist or periodontist, crown lengthening involves recontouring the gums, and in some cases bone, to expose more of the tooth surface for a crown. Tooth-shaped caps that cover a tooth, crowns can be used when a tooth is broken, cracked, or damaged. Crowns can also be involved in other dental procedures such as dental implants, root canals, and bridges.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis meaning the patient can return home after treatment. The time needed to complete the procedure varied based on the number of teeth involved and if any gum tissue or bone need to be removed. To perform the procedure, the patient is first given a local anesthetic to numb the area. Then, the periodontist cuts the gums and pulls the tissue away from the teeth to expose roots (and bone if necessary). After washing the surgical site with salt water, the gums are then washed with salt water before being stitched closed.
Why Get Crown Lengthening?
There are several reasons for getting a crown lengthening procedure done but the most common include:
- Repair Tooth Decay or Damage: The dentist may need to perform a crown lengthening procedure in order to place a crown or filling on the tooth. Often this occurs if the tooth breaks near the gumline. Should a tooth not protrude enough from the gums to properly hold a crown or filling, a portion of the gum tissue may need to be removed to allow the dentist to continue repairing the tooth. Crown lengthening could also be needed if tooth decay has occurred under the gumline causing the filling or crown to fall out. In these cases, the dentist will have to remove part of the gum tissue to reveal the tooth allowing them to install a filling.
- Correct a Gummy Smile: Cosmetic concerns are another common reason for getting a crown lengthening procedure. Patients that show more gum than teeth when smiling or have an irregular gumline, may opt for a crown lengthening procedure to restore the smile.
How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost?
The cost of a crown lengthening procedure varies based on several factors. If more than one tooth that requires the procedure, cost will be higher than a single tooth. Patients can typically expect to pay between $50-$350 to remove and reshape a portion of gum tissue around one tooth with costs rising to $1,000 or more if multiple teeth are involved.
Insurance coverage will also impact the cost of treatment. If the procedure is performed for cosmetic reasons only, the insurance company may consider this elective surgery and be less likely to cover the costs of treatment. Financing plans are offered by many dentists to help patients afford treatment when insurance won’t cover the procedure.