Crown Lengthening, Who Needs it? What’s the Procedure like?

 There are two main reasons for this procedure:

• Functional reasons: If a tooth has extensive decay, a fracture, or an old filling that extends below the gum line, there may not be enough healthy tooth structure to support a crown or bridge. Crown lengthening removes excess tissue and sometimes bone to provide a stable foundation for restorative treatment.
• Aesthetic reasons: Crown lengthening can reshape the gum line for people with a “gummy” smile, where excessive gum tissue makes teeth appear short. This reveals more of the tooth and creates a more balanced, attractive smile.

Crown lengthening is usually done under local anesthesia. The dentist or periodontist gently removes excess gum tissue and, if necessary, reshapes a small amount of bone to expose more tooth surface. The gum tissue is then carefully repositioned and sutured to promote healing. The procedure typically takes about an hour for one or two teeth, though it may take longer if multiple teeth are involved.

Most patients report minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia ensures the area is numb during the procedure, and any post-procedure soreness can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Mild swelling and tenderness are normal and typically subside within a few days.

Initial gum tissue healing usually occurs within a few days, but complete healing can take several weeks. Patients are advised to avoid hard or crunchy foods, use a prescribed mouth rinse to prevent infection, and avoid touching or disturbing the treated area. A follow-up appointment is scheduled to monitor healing and remove sutures if needed.

While crown lengthening is generally safe, some risks include temporary tooth sensitivity to hot or cold, bleeding, infection, or minor gum recession. Following your dentist’s post-operative care instructions carefully helps minimize these risks.

 It is important to allow the gum tissue to heal fully before placing a permanent crown. This usually takes 8 to 12 weeks. Waiting ensures the crown fits properly and helps prevent complications, such as improper alignment or gum irritation.

If you are in Surrey, BC, our team of dentists at Surrey Place Dental has experience performing crown lengthening with precision and care. They focus on both functional outcomes and cosmetic results, ensuring that your teeth are prepared for restorations and your smile looks natural and healthy.