by Rana Baroudi
Dr. Baroudi is a Board Certified Periodontist. She has successfully passed the American Board of Periodontology oral and written examinations covering all phases of periodontal disease, its treatment and dental implants. She is also an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontology at UCSF where she enjoys teaching and lecturing on a bi-monthly basis.
Learn MoreDental implants involve a surgical process that substitutes a missing tooth’s root with a titanium post that resembles a screw. This implant is then topped with a crown that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a sturdy and long-lasting answer to tooth loss. Dental implants offer an alternative to bridges and dentures, offering a more enduring and comfortable option.
Dental implants have evolved through decades of scientific research and technological advancements. These innovations ensure the precision and reliability of the procedure:
Unlike dentures, dental implants are intended to last a lifetime. They bond with your jawbone, guaranteeing they won’t move or slide when you’re eating or talking.
Dental implants look incredibly similar to your real teeth, enhancing your smile and self-esteem.
When a tooth is absent, the jawbone area beneath starts to deteriorate. Dental implants halt this bone loss, fostering overall oral health.
Ensuring the longevity and performance of dental implants extends beyond the surgical procedure:
The upfront costs of dental implants are typically higher than other dental restorative methods. However, when viewed as a long-term investment, they can be more cost-efficient.
The implant process involves surgery, carrying inherent risks like infection or nerve damage. Yet, these risks are low and can be mitigated by choosing an experienced dental professional.
Crown lengthening is a surgical process that removes surplus gum tissue, and potentially bone, to reveal more of a tooth’s surface. This procedure becomes necessary when a tooth needs to be fixed, often due to decay, damage below the gum line, or insufficient tooth structure for a crown or bridge.
For those with excessive gum tissue, crown lengthening can offer a more harmonious and attractive smile.
Crown lengthening unveils more of the tooth, preparing it for necessary restoration procedures such as a crown or bridge.
The outcome of the procedure is typically enduring once it is completed.
Crown lengthening, as a surgical procedure, necessitates a recovery period:
Post-procedure, patients may experience a temporary sensitivity to temperature extremes since more of the tooth is now exposed.
Like all surgical procedures, crown lengthening carries minor risks such as potential infection or discomfort during recovery.
Before delving into crown lengthening, it’s worth understanding the broader concept of dental aesthetics. It’s not only about how teeth function, but also about how they complement the face, contribute to facial symmetry, and enhance overall appearance. The aesthetics can profoundly influence one’s self-perception, interpersonal interactions, and social experiences. Both dental implants and crown lengthening play roles in enhancing these aesthetic parameters.
It’s worth considering several factors before making your decision:
The decision between dental implants and crown lengthening is not about which method is superior. Instead, it hinges on your individual dental requirements.
If you’ve lost a tooth due to decay or trauma and are in search of a permanent, natural-looking replacement, dental implants could be the optimal solution. Conversely, crown lengthening is a preferred method when a tooth lacks sufficient structure for successful restoration or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
Bear in mind, every case is unique. It’s vital to consult with your dentist or dental specialist to assess your oral health and discuss the most appropriate treatment options. Your smile plays a crucial role in your self-image, so entrust it to the professionals who care.
While dental implants and crown lengthening stand out as primary procedures, modern dentistry offers a plethora of alternatives and complementary treatments: