What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that reshapes the gum and underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth. Functional crown lengthening creates a stable platform for a crown or restoration on a tooth that is broken or decayed below the gum line; cosmetic crown lengthening reveals more of the natural tooth to improve the appearance of a "gummy" smile. Healing typically takes 4–8 weeks before the final restoration is placed.
Functional crown lengthening
When a tooth is broken or decayed below the gum line, your restorative dentist may not have enough healthy tooth structure to work with. Functional crown lengthening reshapes the gum and underlying bone to expose more of the tooth, creating a stable platform for a crown or other restoration.
This is often the difference between saving a tooth and extracting it.
Cosmetic crown lengthening
For patients whose gums cover too much of the tooth (a "gummy smile"), we can reshape the gum line — and sometimes the underlying bone — to reveal more of the natural tooth and produce a more proportional smile. Often performed before veneers or other esthetic dental work.
How it works
After local anesthesia, we make small incisions in the gum and reshape the bone around the affected tooth (or teeth) to the appropriate level. Sutures hold everything in position during initial healing.
Healing takes 4–8 weeks before final restoration is placed. Your restorative dentist receives a written summary of the new gingival position.
Common questions
How long until I can have my crown placed?
Typically 4–8 weeks for a single functional case. Cosmetic cases may need slightly longer to ensure tissue stability before veneers.
Is it painful?
Most patients describe it as similar to having a deep cleaning — sore for a couple days, then better. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient.