Logo
A close-up of a perfect smile after crown lengthening.

Crown Lengthening with a Meridian Gum Specialist

The Expert Solution for a “Gummy Smile” or Uneven Gums

Crown lengthening reduces excess gum tissue that makes teeth appear short or uneven. At our Meridian, MS, practice, board-certified periodontist Dr. J. Eric Herrington uses advanced laser periodontal therapy for precise, minimally invasive results. When considering a periodontist vs. a general dentist for this surgical procedure, a specialist offers a higher degree of precision and expertise.

Illustration of the crown lengthening procedure to treat a gummy smile.
Crown lengthening can create a more balanced tooth-to-gum ratio or prepare teeth for restorations.

About Crown Lengthening

A balanced, beautiful smile shows more tooth than gum. For patients with a “gummy smile,” crown lengthening is a minimally invasive procedure to remove excess gum tissue and reveal more of the tooth’s crown. It can also be performed for functional reasons. If a tooth is damaged below the gum line, crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth structure so a filling or crown can be securely placed, which is critical for long-term health and preventing the need for future gum disease treatment.


What to Expect During Laser Crown Lengthening

As a top Meridian gum specialist, Dr. Herrington will perform a thorough evaluation to customize your treatment plan. Photos and measurements will be used to define your goals and ensure predictable, beautiful results.

By using a dental laser, Dr. Herrington minimizes bleeding, swelling, and discomfort, ensuring a faster and more comfortable recovery than traditional methods.

On the day of your surgery, local anesthesia is used to numb the area. We also offer sedation dentistry for a completely relaxed experience. Dr. Herrington will then use a sophisticated dental laser to carefully reshape the gum line, removing only the necessary tissue for an optimal outcome. The results are visible immediately.

Post-procedure discomfort is typically minimal and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We recommend a soft diet for a few days and provide specific instructions for a successful recovery.


Health and Cosmetic Benefits

For patients who feel self-conscious about a “gummy smile,” crown lengthening can be life-changing, providing a significant boost in confidence. Beyond aesthetics, the procedure offers important health benefits.

By exposing more of the tooth, it can be properly restored after damage. Furthermore, by creating a more even gum line, it becomes easier to clean hard-to-reach areas. This significantly reduces the risk of plaque buildup and future periodontal disease.


Consult Our Meridian Gum Specialist

Find out if crown lengthening is the right solution for you. To schedule a consultation with our expert periodontist, Dr. Herrington, please call our office at (601) 482-6938 or contact us online. We are the trusted choice for specialized gum care in the Meridian area.