Oral Surgery
Crown Lengthening in Sarasota, FL
Reshaping gum and bone to reveal more healthy tooth structure.
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue—and sometimes a small amount of bone—to expose more of a tooth’s natural surface. It is most often performed when a tooth needs a crown or restoration but does not have enough visible structure to support one. The procedure can also correct a gummy smile, creating a more balanced and natural appearance.
Dentistry Designed Around Whole-Body Health
Why It Matters
When Crown Lengthening Is Needed
A tooth that has broken at or below the gum line, or one with extensive decay hidden beneath the gums, often cannot receive a filling or crown without first exposing more structure. Crown lengthening gives the restorative dentist the access and foundation required to place a long-lasting restoration.
Without adequate tooth structure above the gum line, restorations fail more quickly. Crown lengthening addresses this directly and can save teeth that might otherwise require extraction.
- Restorative access Exposes enough tooth structure to support a crown, bridge, or large filling
- Decay removal Allows treatment of cavities that extend below the gum line
- Gummy smile correction Reveals more natural tooth for improved aesthetics
- Fractured teeth Uncovers subgingival fractures so the tooth can be properly restored
The Process
What to Expect During Treatment
Evaluation
Digital imaging and clinical exam determine how much tissue needs to be adjusted and whether bone recontouring is necessary.
Anesthesia
Local anesthetic is applied to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
Tissue Reshaping
Excess gum tissue is carefully removed and, if needed, a small amount of bone is recontoured to establish proper biological width.
Healing
The area is sutured and a follow-up visit confirms the tissue has healed before the final restoration is placed.
Is It Right for You
Good Candidates for Crown Lengthening
- Patients with a broken or decayed tooth that lacks enough exposed structure for a crown
- Those whose teeth appear short due to excess gum tissue
- Individuals needing a restoration on a tooth fractured below the gum line
- Patients in good overall health with adequate bone support around the tooth
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Full gum healing typically takes several weeks before the permanent restoration is placed.
Save Your Tooth
Preserve What Nature Gave You
Crown lengthening can be the difference between saving a compromised tooth and losing it. Contact our Sarasota office to find out if this procedure is right for your situation.
Crown Lengthening FAQ
- What is crown lengthening?
- Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that removes gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of a tooth’s surface. It creates enough structure for a crown or other restoration to be placed securely.
- Is crown lengthening painful?
- The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you feel no pain during treatment. Mild soreness afterward is normal and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
- How long does the procedure take?
- Most crown lengthening procedures take between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the number of teeth involved and whether bone adjustment is needed.
- How long is recovery?
- Initial healing takes about one to two weeks. Full tissue maturation may take six to eight weeks before the permanent restoration is placed.
- Can crown lengthening fix a gummy smile?
- Yes. When excess gum tissue makes teeth appear short, crown lengthening can reshape the gum line to reveal more tooth and create a more balanced smile.
- Will my insurance cover crown lengthening?
- Many dental insurance plans cover crown lengthening when it is medically necessary for a restoration. Cosmetic crown lengthening may not be covered. Our team can help verify your benefits.
- What happens if I skip crown lengthening when it is recommended?
- Without enough exposed tooth structure, a crown or filling will not fit properly and is more likely to fail. In some cases the tooth may need to be extracted instead.
- Is crown lengthening the same as gum contouring?
- They are related but different. Gum contouring reshapes soft tissue for cosmetic reasons. Crown lengthening may also involve bone adjustment and is usually performed for restorative purposes.
- How many teeth can be treated at once?
- The procedure can be performed on a single tooth or multiple teeth in the same visit depending on the treatment plan.
- Are there alternatives to crown lengthening?
- In some cases orthodontic extrusion can pull a tooth further out of the bone. However, crown lengthening is typically faster and more predictable for most situations.
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