Crown lengthening is one of the most versatile procedures in periodontics. It is used cosmetically to give "short" teeth their proper proportions and restoratively to expose enough tooth structure for a crown or filling. Same procedure, two very different goals.
When it is cosmetic
A gummy smile is when too much gum tissue shows when you smile. Sometimes the teeth are the right size and the gums simply sit too low. A precise reshaping of the gum line—and sometimes a small amount of bone—reveals the natural beauty of the teeth.
When it is restorative
When a tooth breaks at or below the gumline, your general dentist needs more tooth visible to place a crown or filling. Crown lengthening exposes the additional structure so the restoration has something to bond to and seal against.
How it works
- The area is fully numbed; sedation is available
- Excess gum tissue is precisely removed and recontoured
- If needed, a small amount of bone is also reshaped to keep healthy proportions
- Sutures or surgical adhesive are placed (often dissolvable)
- Final crown or filling is placed 6–8 weeks later, after gum healing
Recovery
- Mild discomfort for 2–3 days, controlled with OTC pain relievers
- Soft diet for one week
- Brushing carefully resumed in 24 hours
- Final aesthetic result visible at 6–8 weeks
Will the gums grow back?
No—the new gum line is permanent. That is why precision and a periodontist's training matter. We measure twice and reshape once.
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