What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a procedure designed to expose more of a tooth’s surface due to a cavity below the gum line that is not accessible for your dentist to remove. By pushing down the gum line, we can create access for your dentist to properly remove the decay and restore your tooth. Crown lengthening can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes for the tooth.
It involves removing excess gum tissue—and sometimes bone—to expose more of the natural tooth. This is often necessary before placing a dental crown or to treat a “gummy” smile.
Common terms used for this procedure include dental crown lengthening, gingival crown lengthening, and crown extension surgery.
Why Would Crown Lengthening Be Necessary in Some Situations?
Crown lengthening may be necessary or recommended in several situations:
- Restorative dentistry: Crown lengthening is often performed to make more of a tooth’s structure visible and accessible when a tooth needs a dental crown or filling. It ensures that there is enough tooth above the gumline for the restoration to properly fit and adhere.
- Aesthetic concerns: Sometimes, excessive gum tissue can make teeth appear short or disproportionate. Aesthetic or cosmetic crown lengthening can help create a more harmonious and pleasing smile by exposing more of the tooth’s surface.
- Tooth decay or fractures below the gumline: When a tooth has decay or a fracture that extends below the gumline, crown lengthening may be necessary to access and treat the affected area.
- A “gummy” smile: In some cases, individuals may have a gummy smile, where an excessive amount of gum tissue is visible when they smile. Crown lengthening can help reduce the gum-to-tooth ratio and improve the smile’s appearance.
Periodontist recommendation: Your dentist or periodontist may suggest crown lengthening when a tooth needs to be saved from extraction by exposing additional healthy structure.
What are the Benefits of Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening offers several benefits, both from a functional and aesthetic perspective. These benefits include:
- Improved restoration fit: Crown lengthening allows for more of the tooth’s structure to be exposed above the gumline. This is crucial for the proper fit and retention of dental restorations such as crowns, fillings, and bridges. Ensuring a stable and secure fit reduces the risk of complications and enhances the longevity of the restoration.
- Enhanced aesthetics: One of the primary reasons for crown lengthening is to improve the appearance of the smile. By exposing more of the tooth’s surface and reducing the prominence of gum tissue, crown lengthening can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. It can also help address the issue of a “gummy smile” by reducing excessive gum exposure when smiling.
- Better oral hygiene: Crown lengthening can make it easier for individuals to maintain good oral hygiene. Exposed tooth surfaces are easier to clean with regular brushing and flossing, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and gum disease.
- Preserving tooth structure: In some cases, crown lengthening can help preserve a tooth that might otherwise need extraction due to extensive decay or fractures below the gumline. By exposing more of the tooth, it may be possible to restore and save it.
What is the Crown Lengthening Procedure Process?
Crown lengthening is a relatively short and non-invasive procedure, meaning patients can typically go home as soon as the surgery is finished. It usually takes between 45 and 90 minutes, depending on how many teeth are treated.
Most of the time, a periodontist will perform the procedure under local anesthesia.
After the area is numbed, Dr. Alireza Khansari will make small incisions with a laser to push the gums away from the teeth and expose the tooth structure. We use an advanced Erbium laser to minimize discomfort and bleeding. In most cases, since the laser acts as a hemostatic agent, no stitches are required.
This technique allows for faster healing and greater precision.
What is the Recovery Time for Crown Lengthening?
Fortunately, healing from crown lengthening only takes two to three days. To ensure proper healing, we typically book a follow-up appointment one to two weeks after the procedure.
Patients can expect some sensitivity in the teeth and gums, along with mild swelling or soreness.
To avoid complications:
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Avoid strenuous activities
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Stick to soft foods
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Do not brush directly on the surgical area for a few days
Full healing of the gums may take 6–12 weeks, especially before placing a crown.
Are there any Potential Complications from Crown Lengthening?
Fortunately, crown lengthening is a routine and safe procedure. It’s essential to follow all postoperative care instructions provided to help prevent any complications.
Minimal risks may include:
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Temporary bleeding
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Gum or tooth sensitivity
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Mild discomfort at the surgical site
If symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to contact your periodontist.
Why Choose Poway Perio for Your Crown Lengthening Procedure?
If you’re having periodontal issues, it’s essential to choose the right crown lengthening specialist for your needs.
Here at Poway Perio, our years of experience in the dental field make us the perfect solution for your needs. We use cutting-edge laser technology, prioritize patient comfort, and provide custom treatment plans tailored to your oral health goals.
We are passionate about helping you fight gum disease and restore your oral health with crown-lengthening procedures and more.
We proudly serve patients in Poway, San Diego, and surrounding areas.
If you have more questions or would like to book a consultation, we’re happy to discuss your situation. Just give us a call at 858-679-0142.
FAQs About Crown Lengthening
What is a crown lengthening procedure?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal surgery that removes gum tissue and/or bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure.
Why do I need crown lengthening before a dental crown?
It ensures there’s enough visible tooth structure for the crown to bond properly and prevent future complications.
Does crown lengthening hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Some mild soreness or sensitivity after the procedure is normal.
How long does crown lengthening take?
Most procedures take 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity and number of teeth involved.
What is the recovery time for crown lengthening?
Initial healing takes 2–3 days, but full recovery (especially for crowns) may take up to 12 weeks.
