When a crown is placed on a tooth, the edge of the crown should be right under the gumline, allowing for easy cleaning and a natural appearance. In some cases, there is not enough tooth above the gumline to attach the crown for a restoration. Crown lengthening is a procedure that can remove excess gum tissue to add a new crown, or it can be used to reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile. At Stafford Oral Surgery & Specialists, we offer both restorative and esthetic crown lengthening for our patients.

Restorative crown lengthening can be needed for a few different reasons. Some people have smaller teeth and not enough tooth structure above the gumline. Others may have suffered trauma to the tooth that broke a portion of the exposed tooth, leaving not enough structure to attach the restoration. Crown lengthening uses incisions at the gumline to access the tooth root underneath. Gum tissue and bone can be removed and the gumline repositioned on the tooth root to allow for a secure attachment of the new dental crown.

Cosmetic Crown Lengthening

For cosmetic or esthetic crown lengthening, the goal is to expose more of the tooth structure and reduce the gum tissue. The “gummy” smile can make teeth look small, showing more gum than tooth. By surgically removing excess gum tissue and repositioning the gumline lower, teeth look larger, even though they are not lengthened at all. The result can be a more pleasing smile for the patient.

If you have a tooth that needs restoration with a dental crown, but not enough of your tooth is visible above the gumline for placement, come see us at Stafford Oral Surgery. We offer both restorative and esthetic crown lengthening procedures performed by oral surgery specialists. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.