Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure performed to improve gum health, restore damaged teeth, and prepare the mouth for restorative or cosmetic dentistry treatments. In addition to functional benefits, crown lengthening can also enhance the appearance of a “gummy smile,” where too much gum tissue covers the teeth. By reshaping or recontouring the bone and gum tissue, your dentist exposes more of your natural tooth structure to create a healthier, more balanced smile.
Crown lengthening is a versatile and effective procedure with many applications. Most patients are extremely satisfied with their results, both functionally and aesthetically.
Here are some of the most common reasons for crown lengthening:
Severe decay, gum disease, or dental trauma can cause teeth to fracture beneath the gum line. Crown lengthening allows your dentist to expose more of the tooth so it can be restored with crowns, caps, or veneers. This is often essential before placing a new restoration after a cracked tooth or broken tooth.
Excess gum tissue can make teeth look short and uneven, or increase the risk of periodontal disease. By gently removing this extra tissue, crown lengthening restores natural tooth proportions and helps achieve a more attractive, symmetrical smile—often complementing other treatments such as bonding, veneers, or dental implants.
When placing crowns, it’s important that there’s enough space between the crown margin and the supporting bone. Crown lengthening provides this space, protecting surrounding gum tissue and bone from damage while ensuring your new crown, cap, or veneer fits securely and comfortably.
This procedure is typically performed under local anesthetic. The duration depends on how many teeth are being treated and whether bone needs to be removed in addition to soft tissue. If you already have crowns, they may be temporarily removed and replaced after the procedure.
Your dentist will make small incisions to gently separate the gum tissue from the teeth, allowing access to the tooth roots and underlying bone. Even if only one tooth needs treatment, neighboring teeth are often included to ensure even contours across the gum line. In some cases, only gum tissue needs adjustment; in others, a small amount of bone may also be reshaped using specialized dental instruments.
Immediately after surgery, your teeth may appear longer because the gums have been repositioned. The area will be covered with a protective periodontal dressing to promote healing and prevent infection. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication and an antimicrobial mouth rinse to support recovery. Complete healing typically occurs within two to three months.
After crown lengthening, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental cleanings or periodontal maintenance appointments to prevent gum disease or infection. Avoid biting hard foods while healing, and follow your dentist’s care instructions closely.
If you’re dealing with a broken tooth, cracked teeth, or excess gum tissue that affects your smile, crown lengthening may be the ideal solution. Whether you’re preparing for crowns, veneers, or dental implants, this procedure can dramatically improve both function and appearance.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn how crown lengthening can help restore your confidence and transform your smile.
