Crown Lengthening - Westchester

What is crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure used to reshape the gum tissue and, when necessary, the underlying bone around a tooth. The goal is to expose more of the natural tooth structure so that a crown, filling, veneer, or other restoration can be placed properly and securely.

At Oliveira and Cardo Dental Care in Hartsdale, crown lengthening may be recommended for patients throughout Westchester who need restorative dental treatment, have a tooth broken near the gum line, or want to improve the appearance of a “gummy smile.”

Why would I need crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is often needed when there is not enough visible tooth above the gum line to support a dental crown or restoration. If a tooth is fractured, badly worn, decayed below the gum line, or covered by excess gum tissue, the dentist may not have enough tooth structure to create a strong, long-lasting result.

By carefully adjusting the gum and bone around the tooth, crown lengthening allows the dentist to access more of the tooth and helps create a healthier, more stable foundation for treatment.

Crown lengthening for dental crowns and restorations

One of the most common reasons for crown lengthening is to prepare a tooth for a dental crown. A crown needs enough natural tooth structure to hold it securely in place. If the crown margin would otherwise be too close to the bone or hidden beneath the gum line, crown lengthening may be necessary before the final restoration is made.

This procedure can help improve the fit, strength, and long-term success of crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations.

Crown lengthening for a gummy smile

Crown lengthening can also be performed for cosmetic reasons. Some patients feel that their teeth look short or that too much gum tissue shows when they smile. In these cases, the procedure can gently reshape the gum line and reveal more of the natural teeth, creating a more balanced and attractive smile.

Is crown lengthening painful?

Crown lengthening is usually performed with local anesthesia, so the area is numb and the procedure should be comfortable. Some patients may experience mild soreness, swelling, or gum sensitivity afterward, but this is typically manageable with post-operative instructions and recommended pain relief.

What is recovery like after crown lengthening?

Most patients can return to normal daily activities shortly after treatment, although the gums need time to heal. You may be advised to avoid chewing directly on the treated area, maintain careful oral hygiene, and follow any instructions provided by your dentist or periodontist.

Depending on the case, final crown or restorative work may be completed after the gum tissue has healed and stabilized.

What are the benefits of crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening can make it possible to save and restore teeth that might otherwise be difficult to treat. It can improve access for dental restorations, support better crown placement, reduce areas where bacteria can collect, and improve the appearance of the smile when excess gum tissue is present.

Schedule a crown lengthening consultation in Westchester

If you have been told that you need crown lengthening before a crown, bridge, or cosmetic procedure, Oliveira and Cardo Dental Care can evaluate your tooth, gum tissue, and treatment options. Call our Hartsdale office at 914-422-3711 or request an appointment online to learn whether crown lengthening is right for you.