Crown Lengthening

Sometimes a tooth appears too short because it's covered by excess gum tissue, or there isn't enough visible tooth structure to support a restoration. Crown lengthening is a procedure that reshapes the gum tissue, and when needed, a small amount of surrounding bone, to expose more of the natural tooth.

‍

At MacArthur Dental Arts in Irvine, CA, crown lengthening may be recommended for restorative or cosmetic reasons, depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. The procedure doesn't make the tooth itself longer, but exposing more of its surface can create the access needed for a restoration or a more balanced gum line.

‍

Restorative and Cosmetic Uses

‍

• Exposing more tooth structure when a tooth is broken or damaged close to the gumline, before placing a crown or filling
• Reshaping excess gum tissue that makes teeth appear shorter or creates an uneven gumline
• Correcting a gummy smile in appropriate cases
• Providing a stable foundation for restorative work that follows

‍

A thorough examination is necessary before treatment, since crown lengthening isn't appropriate for every tooth or every patient.

‍

What to Expect During the Procedure

‍

After numbing the area with local anesthesia, we carefully reshape the gum tissue, and bone if needed, to expose the appropriate amount of tooth structure. The area is then cleaned and, depending on the procedure, sutures may be placed. Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days afterward, and we'll provide clear aftercare instructions, including guidance on diet and cleaning around the treated area.

‍

Crown Lengthening Before a Restoration

‍

When a tooth is broken or damaged close to the gumline, there may not be enough tooth structure exposed for a crown or filling to be placed properly. Crown lengthening can expose additional structure so your restoration has a stable, well-fitting foundation. Your gum and supporting tissues will need time to heal before the final restoration is completed.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

‍

Does crown lengthening actually make my tooth longer?

‍

No. The natural tooth isn't physically lengthened. The procedure exposes more of the existing tooth by reshaping the surrounding gum tissue and, when necessary, bone.

‍

Is crown lengthening painful?

‍

The area is numbed with local anesthesia during the procedure, and any post-procedure discomfort is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.

‍

Why would I need crown lengthening before a crown?

‍

If a tooth is broken or damaged close to the gumline, there may not be enough visible tooth structure to properly place a restoration. Crown lengthening can expose additional structure when appropriate.

‍

Can crown lengthening improve a gummy smile?

‍

It may help in selected cases where excess gum tissue is contributing to the appearance of short teeth. We'll evaluate the cause of your gummy smile before recommending treatment.

‍

Does crown lengthening always involve removing bone?

‍

No. Some cases only require reshaping or removing excess gum tissue. Bone reshaping is only needed if the underlying bone prevents the desired result.

‍

How long is recovery?

‍

Most patients heal within one to two weeks, though full gum tissue maturation can take a bit longer before any planned restoration is completed.

‍

Schedule a Consultation

‍

Contact MacArthur Dental Arts at (949) 251-8544 to find out if crown lengthening is right for you.