While many periodontal procedures are designed to treat gum disease by reducing pocket depth and preserving bone support, others are performed to enhance the aesthetics of the smile or assist in saving a tooth that is structurally compromised. One such procedure is periodontal crown lengthening—a versatile treatment that can be both functional and cosmetic in nature.
Crown lengthening is often indicated in cases where patients have what is commonly referred to as a “gummy smile.” In these situations, the teeth are of adequate length, but they appear short or stubby because they are partially covered by excess gum tissue. Through crown lengthening, we carefully reshape and remove this excess gum and, in some cases, underlying bone tissue to reveal more of the natural tooth surface. The result is a more balanced and attractive smile. This procedure can be performed on a single tooth to match the surrounding teeth or across multiple teeth to create a harmonious gum line.
In addition to cosmetic benefits, crown lengthening is also a valuable tool in restorative dentistry. If a tooth is fractured, severely decayed, or worn down beneath the gum line, there may not be enough visible tooth structure to properly support a crown or other restoration. In these cases, your general dentist may refer you to our office for a functional crown lengthening procedure. By exposing more of the tooth’s surface, we create the space and access needed for a secure, long-lasting dental restoration—potentially saving a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
At Battle Born Periodontics, we use advanced techniques to ensure that crown lengthening is performed with precision, comfort, and optimal results. Whether you're seeking improved aesthetics or functional support for a restorative procedure, crown lengthening offers a solution that supports your smile both in health and appearance. We will work closely with your restorative dentist to ensure seamless care and long-term success.
Crown lengthening is generally well-tolerated, and local anesthesia is used to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. Any discomfort post-surgery can be managed with pain relievers.
Full recovery usually takes a few weeks. Swelling and mild discomfort are common in the first few days, but most patients can return to normal activities within a few days.
Yes, crown lengthening can significantly improve the appearance of your smile by removing excess gum tissue and exposing more of your natural teeth. This creates a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look.
Crown lengthening is necessary when there is not enough tooth structure exposed to support a crown. It is often required for teeth that are severely decayed or covered by excessive gum tissue.
The results of crown lengthening are permanent, and the reshaped gumline will remain stable as long as you maintain good oral hygiene and overall dental care.
Yes, crown lengthening can be performed along with other treatments such as dental implants, fillings, or restorations. Your periodontist will determine the best course of action based on your specific needs.
Insurance coverage for crown lengthening varies depending on the reason for the procedure and the specific insurance plan. We recommend checking with your provider to verify coverage.
After crown lengthening, you will need to follow specific aftercare instructions, including avoiding certain foods and taking care to maintain oral hygiene without irritating the treated area.
Crown lengthening is a safe procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks of infection, excessive bleeding, or unfavorable healing. However, these risks are rare and can be minimized with proper care.
Yes, by reshaping the gum tissue, crown lengthening can improve gum health, especially for those with deep gum pockets or excess tissue that makes it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene.
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