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Surgical Procedures

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening (or crown exposure) can be required when your tooth needs a new crown or other restoration.  If the edge of that restoration is deep below the gum tissue and not accessible, surgery may be necessary to provide the crown extra room. 

The procedure involves adjusting the level of the gum tissue and bone around the tooth in question to create a new gum-to–tooth relationship. This allows us to reach the edge of the restoration, ensuring a proper fit to the tooth.  It should also provide enough tooth structure so the new restoration will not come loose in the future.  This allows you to clean the edge of the restoration when you brush and floss to prevent decay and gum disease.  The procedure commonly takes approximately one hour.

When the procedure is completed, sutures, and a protective bandage are placed to help secure the new gum-to-tooth relationship.  You will need to be seen in approximately two weeks to remove the sutures and evaluate your healing.  Once healing has completed, your restorative dentist can finish any necessary work to complete your crown.