When it comes to crown lengthening, there are a few potential risks and side effects that you should be aware of. I’ll do my best to explain them in detail.
1. Bleeding at the surgical site: It is normal to experience some bleeding after the procedure. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to control the bleeding, such as applying gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad. However, if the bleeding is excessive or doesn’t seem to stop, it is important to contact your dentist immediately.
2. Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures: After crown lengthening, it is common for your teeth to become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. This sensitivity is temporary and should subside over time. However, during this period, you may need to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages to minimize discomfort.
3. Appearance of longer tooth: Crown lengthening involves removing some gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. As a result, the treated tooth may appear longer than the neighboring teeth. This difference in length can sometimes be noticeable, especially if you have a wide smile. However, this aesthetic concern can often be addressed by your dentist through additional treatments, such as dental bonding or veneers.
4. Looseness of the tooth: In some cases, crown lengthening may require the removal of a small amount of bone around the tooth. This can cause the tooth to feel slightly looser than before the procedure. However, this looseness is typically minimal and should stabilize as the healing process progresses. If you notice significant mobility or if the tooth feels unstable, it is important to contact your dentist for further evaluation.
It is important to note that these risks and side effects are relatively rare and most individuals who undergo crown lengthening do not experience any complications. However, it is always crucial to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns that may arise.
Personally, I underwent crown lengthening a few years ago, and while I did experience some initial sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, it gradually improved over a few weeks. The appearance of a longer tooth was barely noticeable in my case, and my dentist reassured me that it could be easily addressed if needed. I am satisfied with the results of my crown lengthening procedure.