Crown Lengthening

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a minor periodontal surgery that exposes more of your tooth by carefully removing gum tissue or bone. This procedure is often necessary when a tooth needs to be repaired or when significant decay exists below the gum line.

When a tooth breaks off at the gumline or when a crown or filling falls out and there is decay underneath, your dentist may need to expose more of the tooth structure to be able to place a filling or crown securely. By reshaping the gum and bone around your tooth, crown lengthening creates a healthy foundation for restorative work.

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How Is Crown Lengthening Performed?

Before your crown lengthening procedure, your periodontist or oral surgeon may recommend that you get a professional cleaning to ensure the area is healthy and ready for treatment.

During the procedure, your periodontist or oral surgeon will use a drill, a laser, or a combination of both to carefully reshape the gum and bone around your tooth. The procedure is typically performed right in our dental office using the same type of local anesthesia you might receive for a filling. In some cases, the anesthesia may be combined with a sedative medication to help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

After surgery, the area will need time to heal. Healing time varies depending on your unique situation and can take anywhere from a few days to several months. Your dental team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to support a smooth recovery.

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Who Performs Crown Lengthening Surgery?

Crown lengthening surgery can often be done right in our dental office. In some cases, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist or oral surgeon who specializes in this type of procedure.

The best way to determine if you need crown lengthening is by making an appointment with your dentist. We can review your symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis, and give you a recommended treatment plan tailored to your needs.