Reviewed by Dr. Rebecca Wagner
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If your teeth look short or your smile shows more gum than you would like, esthetic crown lengthening can create better balance. Also known as a gum lift, the procedure reshapes excess gum tissue to uncover more of each tooth. Sometimes, a small amount of bone beneath the gums must also be adjusted to keep the new gumline stable.
What Is Esthetic Crown Lengthening?
Esthetic crown lengthening is a cosmetic periodontal procedure used to change the shape and position of the gumline. By revealing tooth structure that was hidden beneath the gums, it can make the teeth appear longer and more symmetrical.
Despite the name, the teeth themselves are not lengthened. The goal is to create more natural proportions between the teeth and gums.
When Crown Lengthening Is Recommended for Smile Balance
Crown lengthening may be an option when excess or uneven gum tissue affects the appearance of your smile. It is commonly used to address:
- Teeth that look unusually short or square
- A gumline that sits lower over some teeth than others
- Excess tissue around the upper front teeth
- A gummy smile
- An uneven gumline before veneers or crowns are placed
Not every gummy smile has the same cause. The amount of gum tissue, position of the upper lip and way the teeth erupted can all influence how much gum shows. A periodontal evaluation can identify what is contributing to your smile and whether crown lengthening is likely to help.
Gumline Reshaping for a Gummy Smile
When the gums cover too much of the natural tooth, reshaping the gumline can reveal more of the tooth surface. Several front teeth are often treated together to create a smooth, even curve across the smile.
The aim is not simply to remove as much tissue as possible. Enough gum must remain to protect the roots and maintain periodontal health. The new gumline should also suit the shape of the teeth and the person’s facial features.
What Happens During the Crown Lengthening Procedure?
Esthetic crown lengthening is usually performed with local anesthesia. Dr. Wagner carefully removes and reshapes the gum tissue. If the bone is too close to the proposed gumline, she may also contour a small amount before repositioning and suturing the gums.
Appointment length varies depending on the number of teeth involved and whether bone reshaping is needed. Comfort or sedation options may be available for patients who feel anxious about treatment.
Crown Lengthening vs. Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy removes excess gum tissue but does not alter the bone beneath it. This can be appropriate when there is already enough space between the bone and the planned gumline.
Crown lengthening can involve both the gum tissue and supporting bone. Adjusting the bone when needed protects the attachment around the teeth and gives the gumline a more stable foundation. Dr. Wagner can recommend the right approach after she examines the tissue and bone levels.
Recovery and Healing
Some swelling, tenderness or sensitivity is normal after treatment. Most people can return to their usual activities fairly quickly, although the gums continue to heal and settle over the following weeks.
Aftercare instructions may include:
- Eating soft foods for the first few days
- Avoiding brushing directly over the surgical area until advised
- Using a prescribed or recommended mouth rinse
- Avoiding smoking and vaping
- Returning for follow-up appointments
When crown lengthening is performed before veneers or crowns, the gums may need more time to mature before the final restorations are placed.
Before and After Esthetic Crown Lengthening
Before the procedure, teeth can look short, uneven or partially hidden beneath the gums. Once the area has healed, more of each tooth is visible and the gumline usually appears smoother and more symmetrical.
The outcome depends on factors such as tooth shape, gum thickness, bone position and the reason for the excess tissue. Careful planning allows the gumline to be shaped around the individual instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all result.
See a Periodontist for Cosmetic Gumline Treatment
Esthetic crown lengthening requires an understanding of how the gums, bone and teeth work together. Dr. Rebecca Wagner is a board-certified periodontist with advanced training in periodontal and oral plastic surgery. Her approach considers the appearance of the smile as well as the long-term health of the gums.
To schedule an evaluation, call (717) 263-0606 or visit 129 Chambers Hill Dr, Chambersburg, PA 17201.
FAQ
Is esthetic crown lengthening painful?
Local anesthesia keeps the area numb during treatment. Tenderness or sensitivity afterward is common but can usually be managed by following your periodontist’s aftercare instructions.
Can gums grow back after crown lengthening?
The gum tissue can shift slightly as it heals. When the procedure is properly planned and the underlying bone is adjusted where necessary, the new gumline is more likely to remain stable.
How long do crown-lengthening results last?
Esthetic crown lengthening can provide long-lasting results. Good home care, professional cleanings and prompt treatment for gum inflammation will help maintain the health and appearance of the gumline.
Does insurance cover esthetic crown lengthening?
Coverage depends on the reason for treatment and the terms of your plan. Crown lengthening performed only for appearance is usually considered cosmetic, while treatment required for a crown or another restoration may qualify for partial coverage.
