Crown Lengthening

If you’re bothered by excess gum tissue or a tooth that’s hidden beneath the gums, crown lengthening can be a simple, effective way to reveal more of your tooth and improve your smile’s appearance. Whether you're looking to reduce visible gums or prepare a tooth for a crown, our team is here to help with this precise, minimally invasive procedure.

schedule an appointment

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue and sometimes reshaping the bone to expose more of your tooth’s surface. It can be done for cosmetic reasons, such as correcting a "gummy smile," or for functional reasons, like getting a tooth ready for a crown or other restoration.

The procedure is typically done with local anesthesia to ensure comfort, and it can be performed on one or multiple teeth, depending on your needs.

Why Would You Need Crown Lengthening?

You have a "gummy smile": Excess gum tissue can make your teeth appear shorter, and crown lengthening can help reveal more of your natural tooth. ‍
You need a dental crown: If a tooth has significant decay or damage below the gum line, crown lengthening creates enough space to place a crown. ‍
You have uneven gum lines: Crown lengthening can help create a more symmetrical gum line. ‍
You have tooth decay below the gum line: Removing gum tissue allows your dentist to access and treat decay that would otherwise be hidden.

Is Crown Lengthening Painful?

Crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.

Some patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or tenderness after the procedure, but these symptoms are usually manageable with prescribed medication and by following aftercare instructions.

Can You Have Crown Lengthening if You Have Gum Disease?

If you have gum disease, it’s important to address it before undergoing crown lengthening. Your dentist may recommend treating the gum disease first to ensure your gums are healthy and that the procedure will be successful.

What is the Recovery Time for Crown Lengthening?

Recovery after crown lengthening is usually quick, and most patients are back to their normal routine in just a few days. To ensure the best results, following your care instructions is important for a smooth and comfortable healing process.

Here are a few tips to help with your recovery:

Avoid hard or crunchy foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the surgical area.
Use a prescribed mouth rinse to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Take any prescribed pain medication as directed to keep discomfort to a minimum.
Keep your head elevated while resting to minimize swelling.
Attend follow-up appointments to ensure your gums are healing properly.

Reveal Your Perfect Smile with Crown Lengthening

Contact Guiding Light Dental today to see how crown lengthening can transform your smile. Our friendly team is here to make the process easy and comfortable!