What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue and, in some cases, bone around a tooth to expose more of the tooth’s natural structure. The procedure is performed for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Functionally, it creates the space needed for a dental restoration such as a dental crown to be placed properly. Aesthetically, it addresses a “gummy smile” by revealing more of the tooth surface and creating a more balanced, proportionate gumline.
Crown Lengthening: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 procedure, plus follow-up |
| Time needed | About 60 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery time | One to two weeks; final crown after 6 to 12 weeks |
| How long it lasts | Permanent |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
When Crown Lengthening Is Recommended
Crown lengthening has two purposes. It can expose enough sound tooth for a restoration to hold, or it can correct a smile where the gums cover too much of the teeth.
- A tooth broken or decayed at or below the gumline
- A crown that keeps coming off because the tooth is too short
- A gummy smile
- An uneven gumline across the front teeth
- A filling or crown edge that sits too deep under the gum
Crown Lengthening at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, crown lengthening is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, who brings the precision and soft tissue expertise of a board-certified periodontist to every case. The procedure involves carefully reshaping the gum tissue and, when necessary, the underlying bone to expose the appropriate amount of tooth structure. Dr. Geoffrey evaluates the biological width, tissue health, and overall treatment objectives before determining how much tissue should be adjusted, ensuring the result supports both the health of the tooth and the quality of any planned restoration.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Planning. X-rays and measurements show how much tooth must be exposed.
- Numbing. Local anesthesia is given.
- Reshaping. Gum, and bone where required, is reshaped around the tooth.
- Stitches. The gum is secured in its new position.
- Healing. The gum settles over six to twelve weeks before a final crown is made.
Crown lengthening compared with gum contouring
| Feature | Crown lengthening | Laser gum contouring |
|---|---|---|
| Tissue reshaped | Gum and often bone | Gum only |
| Main purpose | Restorative or cosmetic | Cosmetic |
| Healing before final crown | 6 to 12 weeks | Usually 1 to 2 weeks |
| Performed by | Periodontist | Dentist with laser training |
A crown can only be as secure as the tooth it sits on. Crown lengthening gives it something to hold.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- Use cold packs and rest
- Eat soft foods and chew on the other side
- Do not brush the surgical area
The following days and weeks
- Use the prescribed rinse
- Return for stitch removal and healing checks
- Wait for the gum to settle before the final crown
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Swelling that increases after day three
- A temporary crown comes off
Restorative and Cosmetic Uses
In restorative cases, crown lengthening is often necessary when a tooth is broken below the gumline or when decay extends beneath the gum tissue, leaving insufficient structure for a crown to grip onto. Without adequate tooth exposure, a crown cannot be fabricated or seated properly, and the restoration is at risk of failure. Crown lengthening solves this by revealing enough healthy tooth structure to allow for a secure, long-lasting fit.
For patients pursuing crown lengthening for cosmetic reasons, the procedure can dramatically improve the appearance of a smile by correcting an uneven gumline or reducing the amount of gum tissue visible when smiling. When combined with treatments from the cosmetic dentistry program, such as porcelain veneers, crown lengthening can be part of a comprehensive smile transformation.
Cost and Insurance
The fee for periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and on whether surgery or grafting is needed. You receive a written estimate after your gum evaluation.
What affects the cost
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Graft materials and membranes, where used
- Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
