1316 Davie Ave, Suite A Statesville, NC 28677-3561 |
Crown Lengthening
Statesville, NC
Crown lengthening is a surgical periodontal procedure that reshapes the gum tissue — and sometimes the underlying bone — to expose more of a tooth's surface. Despite the name, nothing is being added to the tooth itself. Instead, the gumline is carefully repositioned to reveal more of the natural tooth structure that already exists beneath it. The result is a tooth that appears longer and, depending on the reason for treatment, one that is better prepared for a dental restoration. This procedure is performed by Dr. Packman here at Jon C. Packman DDS and typically takes about an hour, though that varies based on how many teeth are involved and whether bone needs to be adjusted along with the soft tissue. Why Crown Lengthening Is PerformedThere are two main reasons a patient might need crown lengthening: restorative necessity or cosmetic improvement. Both are legitimate, and both produce meaningful results. Restorative Crown LengtheningWhen a tooth is severely decayed, fractured below the gumline, or has a broken-down restoration, the dentist may not have enough exposed tooth structure to securely place a new dental crown. Attempting to restore a tooth without adequate structure risks crown failure and the restoration won't have the retention it needs to stay in place long-term. Crown lengthening solves this by exposing more of the tooth above the gumline. Once healing is complete, the dentist has a clean, accessible surface to work with, and the new crown can be placed with confidence. Cosmetic Crown LengtheningSome patients are bothered by what's often called a "gummy smile." This is a smile where the gums appear disproportionately prominent because the teeth look short. In many cases, the teeth aren't actually short; they're simply covered by excess gum tissue. Crown lengthening removes that excess tissue to reveal the full length of the teeth, creating a more balanced, proportionate smile. Cosmetic crown lengthening is frequently combined with other treatments such as veneers or composite bonding to achieve a complete smile transformation. The Crown Lengthening ProcedureCrown lengthening is performed under local anesthesia, so patients remain comfortable throughout. Depending on individual needs, sedation options may also be available. Once the area is numb, the dentist makes small incisions in the gum tissue to gently separate it from the teeth. This provides access to both the roots and the underlying bone. If reshaping the bone is necessary, which is common in restorative cases, the dentist will carefully contour it to achieve the right tissue-to-tooth ratio. The gums are then repositioned at a lower level along the tooth, sutured into place, and the area is cleaned. The entire process is methodical and precise. The goal isn't just to remove tissue but to establish a stable, healthy gum margin that will support either a restoration or a more aesthetic smile long after the procedure is done. Recovery and What To ExpectMost patients experience mild to moderate discomfort in the days following crown lengthening, which is typically well-managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or any prescription medication provided at the appointment. Swelling and some sensitivity are normal and generally subside within the first week. Sutures are usually removed at a follow-up appointment about one to two weeks after surgery. Full healing of the gum tissue takes longer — often several weeks — and the bone, if it was reshaped, requires more time still. For restorative cases, the dentist will typically wait until healing is complete before moving forward with the crown, which may be anywhere from 6-12 weeks post-procedure. During recovery, patients are advised to:
Most people return to normal daily activities within a day or two, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a week. How Long Do the Results Last?Crown lengthening produces permanent changes to the gumline. Once the tissue and bone have been repositioned and healed, they remain in that position. For restorative patients, this means a stable foundation for a crown that can last for many years with proper care. For cosmetic patients, the improved gum-to-tooth ratio is a lasting change — one that doesn't require maintenance or repeat procedures the way some cosmetic treatments do. Ongoing periodontal health plays a role in preserving those results. Patients who maintain regular cleanings, practice thorough home care, and address any gum disease promptly are the most likely to enjoy durable outcomes. Are You a Candidate for Crown Lengthening?Good candidates for crown lengthening are patients in reasonably good periodontal health who have either a restorative need the dentist has identified or a cosmetic concern they want to address. Active, untreated gum disease would need to be resolved before the procedure, as performing surgery on already-compromised tissue produces less predictable results. The best way to know whether crown lengthening makes sense for your situation is a consultation at Jon C. Packman DDS. At that appointment, your gums, bone levels, and overall oral health will be evaluated, and the dentist can explain exactly what would be involved and what kind of outcome to expect. Schedule a Consultation With Jon C. Packman DDS
If the dentist has recommended crown lengthening before placing a restoration, or if you've been unhappy with the appearance of your smile because of prominent gum tissue, Jon C. Packman DDS can help. Our team will take the time to evaluate your specific situation and walk you through your options clearly. Call (704) 978-7060 to schedule your consultation. |
Phone(704) 978-7060 HoursMonday–Thursday: 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. CLOSED from 12:30p.m.–2p.m. AddressJon C. Packman DDS 1316 Davie Ave Suite A Statesville, NC 28677-3561 |
