Q: Is it possible to get an abscess from crown lengthening?
A: Crown lengthening is a routine procedure done by periodontists or general dentists to create more tooth structure available for putting a cap on. Crown lengthening can also be done to correct gummy smile, by removing some gum tissues and exposing more of the tooth structure so that teeth will have esthetic appearance. Crown lengthening usually involves removing some bone around teeth and adjusting the gum tissue level. Before finishing up the procedure, the doctor will plane the root surfaces of involved teeth.
It is possible to get an abscess from crown lengthening. Most of the time, when the crown lengthening procedure is done properly, the gum tissues should heal without an abscess. From my experience, I have not noticed any post-operative abscesses from my patients. Patients who are diabetic or immunologically compromised are more likely to develop abscesses after procedures like crown lengthening.
Do you have a question? Ask Dr Perio
