Crown Lengthening

OVERVIEW

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is the most common technique in surgery related to periodontal tissue.

This procedure is generally performed in order to improve health, prepare the mouth for other treatments, or achieve cosmetic goals.

Reasons for Crown Lengthening

Gum Health
Improve the health of the gum tissue
Restorations
Prepare the mouth for restorative procedures
Cosmetics
Prepare the mouth for cosmetic procedures
Gummy Smile
Correct a “gummy” smile (excess gum tissue)

Traditional Technique

This technique uses a dental drill to drill the tooth and shape cavity fillings. To prevent the drill from touching the tooth’s root, your dentist will limit the drilling. Therefore, some bone fragments may remain on the root and will need to be removed with simple hand tools.

Surgical Approach with Piezo

This modern method is extremely safe. With Piezo surgery, the doctor can remove the extra bone underneath the gum without causing harm to the soft tissues.

Healing time is accelerated when Piezo surgery technology is used. Patients experience faster healing, minimal postoperative pain, and minimal discomfort compared with traditional surgery.

Crown Lengthening at Worldwide Hospital

Worldwide applies modern surgical technology to support more precise and comfortable crown lengthening procedures. The Piezo surgical approach allows the doctor to remove excess bone beneath the gum while minimizing trauma to surrounding soft tissues. This can help support a faster recovery and reduce postoperative discomfort compared with traditional surgical techniques.

Worldwide also describes the use of SmileCloud, Fotona Lightwalker Laser for gingival contouring, and ultrasonic technology for osseous surgery in gummy-smile treatment.

COMPARISON

Gum Contouring vs. Crown Lengthening

Feature Gum Contouring Crown Lengthening
Tissues Involved Soft-tissue reduction only Both gum tissue and alveolar bone
Primary Purpose Reshapes an uneven gum line to improve the tooth-to-gum ratio Exposes more tooth structure for a dental crown or another restoration
When It’s Appropriate Adequate attached gingiva and > 3 mm of tissue coronal to the bone crest Insufficient exposed tooth structure
Recovery Time Relatively fast Generally at least one week, may take several weeks

KNOWLEDGE CENTER

Related Information

What is a Gummy Smile?

A gummy smile occurs when a disproportionate amount of gum tissue is visible above the upper teeth when smiling. Worldwide has a dedicated page explaining this condition. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve removal of soft tissue alone or both soft tissue and alveolar bone.

With Piezo surgery, the doctor can remove the extra bone underneath the gum without causing harm to the soft tissues. Healing time is accelerated, with minimal postoperative pain and discomfort compared with traditional surgery.

IMPROVE YOUR GUM HEALTH

Book a Dental Consultation

Whether you need crown lengthening to prepare for a restoration or to correct a gummy smile, Worldwide utilizes modern technology to ensure a precise, comfortable, and safe procedure. Schedule a consultation today.

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