Crown Lengthening

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that removes excess gum tissue and sometimes a small amount of bone to expose more of the tooth's crown. It's performed for two main purposes: functional (to expose enough tooth structure for a crown or filling when decay or fracture extends below the gum line) and aesthetic (to correct a gummy smile or uneven gum line).

How It Works

Under local anesthesia, the periodontist makes incisions to reflect the gum, removes the appropriate amount of gum and bone, then sutures the tissue back at a lower level. Healing takes 4–6 weeks before a crown can be placed. Aesthetic crown lengthening may be combined with other cosmetic procedures.

Key Benefits

• Allows placement of a crown on a tooth that would otherwise require extraction
• Creates a balanced, more proportionate gum line for aesthetics
• Improves oral hygiene by making previously inaccessible areas cleanable
• Single procedure with lasting results

Frequently Asked Questions