Crown Lengthening
Esthetic & Functional Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a specialized periodontal procedure that reshapes the gum and bone levels to expose more of a tooth’s natural structure. While the name suggests making the tooth “longer,” the procedure actually adjusts the surrounding tissue to create the ideal relationship between your teeth, gums, and future dental restorations. At Christman Periodontics, we perform crown lengthening for both restorative necessity and cosmetic enhancement.
Esthetic Crown Lengthening: Correcting the “Gummy Smile”
Many patients feel their teeth appear too short or that their smile shows an excessive amount of gum tissue—often referred to as a “gummy smile.” In many cases, the teeth are actually the proper length but are simply hidden behind an overgrowth of gum tissue.
- Symmetry and Balance: We carefully sculpt the gumline to create a more proportionate and harmonious look.
- A Natural Transformation: By revealing the hidden tooth structure, we can transform an uneven gumline into a balanced, confident smile.
Functional Crown Lengthening: Creating a Stable Foundation
Functional crown lengthening is often required when a tooth is badly decayed, broken below the gumline, or has insufficient structure to support a new crown or bridge.
If your general dentist cannot reach the healthy part of the tooth to place a restoration, they will refer you to a periodontist. We “lengthen” the available tooth structure so that:
- Restorations stay secure: Your new crown will have enough tooth to “grab” onto, preventing it from popping off.
- Gum Health is Protected: Providing adequate space between the bottom of a crown and the bone prevents chronic inflammation and irritation (a concept known as maintaining “biological width”).
- Decay is Resolved: It allows the dentist to reach deep decay that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Contact us to to discuss how crown lengthening can help to create a stable foundation.