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Crown lengthening is a procedure that reshapes or recontours bone and gum tissue to expose more of the natural tooth. This can improve gum health, prepare the mouth for restorative or cosmetic procedures, and correct a “gummy” smile.
Crown lengthening can be performed on:
- A single tooth
- Multiple teeth
- The entire gum line
This versatile procedure offers many benefits and has a high success rate. Most patients who undergo crown lengthening are very satisfied with the results.
Here are some of the most common reasons for crown lengthening:
- Restoration of damaged teeth – Crown lengthening can be used to prepare teeth damaged by periodontal disease, trauma, or decay for restorative procedures. This involves exposing more of the tooth structure below the gum line.
- Cosmetic uses – Excess gum tissue can make teeth appear short and increase the risk of gum infections. Crown lengthening can remove excess tissue, restore a balanced appearance, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile.
- Dental crowns – Crown lengthening creates more space between the jawbone and dental crown, preventing damage to the gum tissue and bone once the new crown is in place.
What does crown lengthening involve?
Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia. The procedure time varies depending on the number of teeth involved and whether bone removal is necessary. Existing dental crowns will be removed before the procedure and replaced afterward.
The procedure involves:
- Making small incisions around the gum tissue.
- Separating the gums from the teeth.
- Removing excess gum tissue and, if needed, a small amount of bone using specialized instruments.
After the procedure:
- Your teeth will appear longer due to the repositioned gums.
- Your dentist will secure the surgical site with a periodontal bandage.
- You’ll receive prescriptions for pain medication and a chlorhexidine mouth rinse.
- The surgical site will heal completely in approximately 2-3 months.
If you have questions about crown lengthening, please contact our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that removes a small amount of gum tissue and sometimes bone around a tooth to expose more of the tooth’s structure. This helps make room for restorations such as crowns or fillings, improves the tooth’s appearance, and can create a healthier gum contour. The goal is to expose enough sound tooth structure so that dental work can be securely placed and function properly.
You might need crown lengthening if a tooth has broken off near the gum line, if decay extends below the gum, or if there isn’t enough tooth above the gum to support a crown or other dental restoration. It can also be recommended when a smile shows too much gum tissue, sometimes called a “gummy smile,” to improve both function and aesthetics. Your dentist evaluates bone, tissue, and tooth position to determine if crown lengthening will help.
During the crown lengthening procedure, your dentist will carefully numb the area with local anesthesia so you remain comfortable. A small amount of gum tissue and possibly bone is gently reshaped to expose more of the tooth. Once the desired amount of tooth structure is visible, the area is cleaned and sutured to help healing. After the procedure, a protective dressing may be placed to support comfort and promote proper gum contour as the tissues heal.
Most patients are surprised at how manageable the procedure is. Local anesthesia ensures that the area being treated feels numb and remains comfortable during the process. After the procedure, sensitivity and mild soreness are normal but typically subside within a few days. Any discomfort can usually be controlled with standard pain medication and proper aftercare, and many patients return to normal activities quickly.
Recovery varies from person to person, but most individuals experience noticeable healing within one to two weeks. Full gum tissue healing and stabilization can take a bit longer, which is why your dentist may schedule follow-up visits before placing final restorations such as a crown. You will be given specific instructions on oral hygiene and diet to help ensure a smooth healing process.
Yes, crown lengthening can improve the appearance of your smile by reshaping excessive gum tissue and exposing more of your natural teeth. Many patients seek this procedure not only to prepare for dental restorations but also to enhance the balance and proportion of their smile when too much gum shows during a natural expression.
Crown lengthening serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. While it can improve the look of your smile by adjusting gum levels, it is often done to allow proper placement of dental restorations like crowns or fillings. Without enough exposed tooth structure, restorations may fail, become loose, or trap food and bacteria, which can lead to complications. Properly performed crown lengthening sets the stage for long-term dental health.
Often, crown lengthening is performed in preparation for a restorative procedure such as placing a crown. The goal is to expose sufficient tooth structure so that a crown or other restoration can be secured with a proper fit and seal. In some cases, crown lengthening also helps existing crowns or restorations be replaced more effectively. Your dentist will discuss your treatment sequence based on your individual needs.
The cost of crown lengthening depends on factors such as the extent of tissue and bone reshaping needed, whether additional procedures are performed at the same time, and any anesthetic or sedation options used for patient comfort. During your consultation at Okun Dentistry, you will receive a comprehensive treatment plan with clear pricing and any available payment or insurance options.
As with any dental procedure, there are risks to consider, but crown lengthening is generally safe when performed by experienced dental professionals. Mild sensitivity, swelling, or discomfort can occur as part of normal healing. Rarely, additional gum recession or changes in tooth appearance around the treated area may happen, which is why careful planning and skilled technique are important. Your dentist will explain how to minimize risks and support optimal healing.
After your procedure, gentle oral hygiene and following your dentist’s instructions are key to successful healing. You may be advised to clean around the treated area carefully with soft brushing and a prescribed rinse, avoid certain foods for a short period, and return for follow-up care. Keeping gums healthy and free of plaque supports long-term results and helps prevent complications.
Your dentist will assess how your gums are healing before moving forward with the next phase, such as placing a crown or final restoration. This often occurs after the gum tissue has stabilized, which can take several weeks. Regular checkups after the procedure allow your dentist to monitor healing and plan your restoration at the right time to ensure durability and comfort.