What it is
Crown lengthening is a periodontal surgical technique that exposes more healthy tooth structure, reshaping the gum and, if needed, the underlying bone, within periodontics.
When it’s indicated
It’s necessary when a tooth is heavily worn or fractured and there isn’t enough visible structure to fit a crown or prosthesis stably, or when the gum covers too much of the tooth (a “gummy smile”) and a more harmonious result is wanted as part of a dental aesthetics plan.
- A heavily worn or fractured tooth with little visible structure for a crown or veneer
- A gummy smile, when the gum covers too much of the tooth
- Needing more biological space before a prosthetic restoration
What the process of Crown Lengthening looks like
- Aesthetic or functional planning We determine how much gum and bone need reshaping depending on the goal, whether aesthetic or for a future restoration.
- Reshaping surgery We recontour the gum and, if necessary, the underlying bone, under local anaesthesia.
- Healing and restoration Once the area has healed, the prosthetic restoration is carried out, or the aesthetic result is complete.
Frequently asked questions about Crown Lengthening
Is it the same as a gingivectomy?
They're related: a gingivectomy only reshapes the gum, while crown lengthening can also include reshaping the bone when more exposed tooth structure is needed.
How long do I need to wait for the final crown or veneer?
Usually between 6 and 8 weeks, the time needed for the gum to heal and settle into its new position.
Is it only a cosmetic treatment?
Not always. It's often a necessary step so a prosthetic restoration can be fitted correctly and last longer.
Treatments related to Crown Lengthening
Correcting Dark Gums
Gum depigmentation to lighten gums darkened by melanin build-up, using laser or minimally invasive surgical techniques, with a stable result.
View treatment →Gum Graft
A tissue graft to cover the exposed root of receding gums, using minimally invasive techniques and local anaesthesia, improving sensitivity and the appearance of the smile.
View treatment →Periodontal Microsurgery
Periodontal surgery carried out under magnification with a microscope or high-power loupes, with minimal incisions to treat the gum with greater precision and a faster recovery.
View treatment →Periodontal Bone Regeneration
Regenerating bone lost to periodontitis using grafts and membranes, to restore the tooth's bone support and halt the progression of gum disease.
View treatment →
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