What are the steps involved in Functional Crown Lengthening?

Which scenarios/teeth are best for this type of surgery?

What is biologic width and why should we care?

Is Bone sounding a diagnostic test, or just a genre of music?

The answer to these questions and a lot more can be found in this packed episode with Dr Hiten Halai. We cover the right protocols when crown lengthening and understand the difference between aesthetic and functional crown lengthening. 

Protrusive Dental Pearl – Bone Sounding

Using a periodontal probe, go into the depth of the sulcus, pushing deeply until you hit bone, all while recording the measurement with the probe. This measurement will then guide you on how to carry out your crown lengthening procedure. Push hard to pass the connective tissue and ensure you are touching the bone.

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Highlights of this Episode:
03:19 Protrusive Dental Pearl
06:10 Introduction – Dr Hiten Halai
12:56 Functional Crown Lengthening
15:41 Understanding Crown Lengthening Types
18:42 University of Dental Instagram
22:38 Biologic Width aka Supra-crestal Tissue Attachment
25:51 Functional Crown Lengthening: Practical Considerations
31:09 Assessments & Keratinised Tissue
35:47 Understanding Tissue Phenotypes
39:16 Case Study: Premolar Treatment
43:17 Bone Sounding and Biologic Width
46:58 Shape of Gingivectomy
50:31 Flap Designs
52:37 Burs for Crown Lengthening
56:13 Healing and Restoration Timelines
58:31 Learning and Training Opportunities

Key Takeaways:

• 
  
• Hiten’s journey began with a passion for periodontics during dental school.
  
• Managing time effectively is crucial for specialists with busy schedules.
  
• Functional crown lengthening is often underutilized in practice.
  
• Aesthetic crown lengthening can lead to complications if not done correctly.
  
• Understanding biologic width is essential for successful crown lengthening procedures.
  
• Preoperative assessments are critical for determining candidacy for crown lengthening.
  
• The type of gingival tissue affects surgical outcomes and healing.
  
• Proper surgical techniques can prevent complications and ensure better healing.
  
• Postoperative care is vital for achieving desired aesthetic results.
  
• Continuous education and mentorship are important for dental professionals.
  

This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance. 

This episode meets GDC Outcome C.

ADG Code: 490 PERIODONTICS (Mucogingival management) 

Aim: To enhance knowledge and practical understanding of crown lengthening procedures, with a focus on distinguishing between aesthetic and functional crown lengthening, and the importance of biologic width in achieving predictable clinical outcomes.

Learning Outcomes:

1. 
   
2. Identify the key differences between aesthetic and functional crown lengthening and the clinical scenarios in which each is most appropriate.
   
3. Demonstrate an understanding of biologic width and its significance in the success of crown lengthening procedures, including the impact on long-term periodontal health.
   
4. Apply the principles of bone sounding to accurately assess the need for crown lengthening and ensure optimal restoration outcomes, minimising risks such as gingival recession and bone loss.
   

If you liked this episode, check out: PDP079 – Crown Lengthening