Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves the removal of gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of a tooth’s surface. This procedure can be done for functional reasons, such as to prepare a tooth for a dental crown or filling, or for cosmetic reasons, such as to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile. When considering crown lengthening cost, it’s important to understand what is included in the cost of the procedure.
Initial Consultation
The first step in crown lengthening is an initial consultation with a dentist or periodontist to evaluate the patient’s oral health and determine if crown lengthening is necessary. During the consultation, the dentist will take X-rays and discuss the patient’s flouride treatment goals, as well as the risks and benefits of the procedure. The cost of the consultation is usually included in the overall cost of the procedure.
Anesthesia
Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. The cost of anesthesia is usually included in the overall cost of the procedure, although some dentists may charge an additional fee for sedation or general anesthesia.
Gum Tissue And Bone Removal
The main component of crown lengthening is the removal of gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. The amount of tissue and bone that needs to be removed will depend on the individual case, and the cost of the procedure will reflect this.
Surgery Fees
The cost of crown lengthening surgery will depend on the complexity of the procedure, the amount of gum and bone tissue that needs to be removed, and the expertise of the dental professional performing the surgery. A periodontist, who specializes in gum health and surgery, may charge more than a general dentist for the procedure.
Post-Operative Care
Following the crown lengthening procedure, patients will need to take special care of the treated area to promote healing and prevent infection. This may include antibiotics, pain medication, and specialized mouthwash or rinses. The cost of post-operative care is usually included in the overall cost of the procedure.
Follow-Up Appointments
Patients will typically need to have several follow-up appointments with their dentist or periodontist after crown lengthening to ensure proper healing and assess the success of the procedure. These appointments are usually included in the overall cost of the procedure.
Fluoride Treatment
After crown lengthening, it is important to protect the exposed tooth surface from decay. This may involve a fluoride treatment to strengthen the tooth enamel and make it more resistant to cavities. The cost of fluoride treatment may be included in the overall cost of the procedure or may be an additional fee.
Overall, the cost of crown lengthening can vary depending on the individual case and the dental professional performing the procedure. Patients should be sure to discuss all aspects of the procedure with their dentist or periodontist, including the cost and what is included, before making a decision.
