Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that is done to expose more of the tooth structure so that a dental crown or other restoration can be placed. It is typically used when a tooth has been broken or decayed to the point that there is not enough tooth structure remaining to support a traditional restoration, or when a tooth has been worn down to the point that it looks too short.

The procedure involves the removal of gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure. This can be done through a traditional surgical incision or with a laser. The exposed tooth structure is then shaped and contoured to provide a stable foundation for the crown or other restoration.

Crown Lengthening is also a cosmetic procedure that is used to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile, where too much gum tissue is visible when smiling. You may have excess of gum tissue on your teeth, causing your teeth to appear short. Furthermore, you may a discrepancy between the location of the gum tissue on adjacent teeth (“uneven margins”). Crown lengthening can improve your smile in these cases by providing a more natural appearance of your teeth and gums.

The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia or IV sedation, and recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the procedure. After the procedure, the patient may experience some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs.

Crown lengthening can be a successful procedure but there is a risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or changes in the shape of the gums. It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with our doctors before undergoing the procedure.