Crown Lengthening
A minor surgical procedure that reshapes the gum and bone tissue to expose more of your natural tooth—unlocking healthier, longer-lasting restorations or improving smile aesthetics.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a procedure that adjusts the gum (and sometimes bone) level around a tooth to expose more of its surface. It can be performed for restorative reasons—like placing a crown on a tooth that’s broken near the gum line—or for cosmetic reasons, such as correcting a “gummy smile.”
At Village Dental, crown lengthening is performed gently and precisely using advanced techniques that minimize discomfort and accelerate healing. Whether you need more tooth structure exposed for a procedure or simply want your teeth to appear longer and more balanced, this treatment opens the door to better oral health and improved aesthetics.
✔️ A tooth is too short or broken below the gum line for a crown
✔️ Your dentist can’t access enough tooth surface to properly place a filling or restoration
✔️ You have a “gummy smile” and want a more even gum line
✔️ You’ve had a crown or veneer fall off due to inadequate support
✔️ You’re planning cosmetic work and need to expose more tooth for ideal results
When Might You Need This?
How the Procedure Works
Before
• We take digital x-rays or 3D scans to assess gum and bone levels
• You’ll receive a thorough consultation to determine if crown lengthening is needed before restorative or cosmetic procedures
• Local anesthesia is used to numb the area fully—comfort is always a priority
During
• Excess gum tissue (and sometimes a small amount of bone) is carefully removed or reshaped
• The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on how many teeth are involved
• Stitches may be placed to aid healing, and the treated area will be rinsed and protected
After
• Mild soreness, swelling, or bleeding is common in the first few days
• We’ll provide special rinses, medication if needed, and aftercare instructions
• You’ll return for a follow-up visit in 1–2 weeks to monitor healing and remove stitches (if placed)
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
• Makes room for successful placement of crowns, veneers, or fillings
• Improves smile aesthetics by reducing excessive gum display
• Removes deep pockets where bacteria may hide, improving gum health
Immediate Benefits
• Supports longer-lasting restorations by increasing tooth surface area
• Reduces the risk of decay or failure under restorations
• Creates a more balanced, attractive smile without touching your teeth
Long-term Benefits
This small but powerful procedure can make a big difference—whether you're preparing for a crown, fixing a broken tooth, or simply want to enhance your smile. At Village Dental, we’re proud to offer this precise service using the latest in minimally invasive techniques.
Why Crown Lengthening Matters
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Why Crown Lengthening Matters 〰️
Why Crown Lengthening Matters
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Why Crown Lengthening Matters 〰️
• Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 2–3 days
• Rinse gently with warm salt water or a prescribed mouth rinse
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol while healing
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing directly on the surgical site
• Contact us if you experience excessive bleeding, swelling, or discomfort
Post-Procedure Care*
FAQs
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Not during the procedure—we use local anesthesia to keep you completely comfortable. Some tenderness afterward is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter medications or any prescribed care.
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Gum contouring is a purely cosmetic treatment that reshapes the gums. Crown lengthening may also involve minor bone reshaping and is often done for functional or restorative reasons.
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In most cases, we wait 6–8 weeks to allow full gum healing before placing the final restoration, though timelines vary depending on the case.
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It can! In a good way. For patients with short-looking teeth or a “gummy” smile, crown lengthening can make the teeth appear longer, more symmetrical, and more balanced.