Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening (or crown exposure) is sometimes required when your tooth needs a new crown or other restoration. The edge of that restoration is deep below the gum tissue and not accessible. This edge or new tooth cavity can be too close to the bone or even below the bone.

The procedure involves adjusting the levels of the gum tissue and bone around the tooth in question to create a new gum-to–tooth relationship. This allows your general dentist to reach the edge of the restoration, ensuring a proper fit of a crown. 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.

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 two weeks to remove the sutures and evaluate your healing. The protective bandage is meant to stay for 24 hours but keep it in place until it comes off on its own.