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Services  > Periodontal Dentistry  > Clear Aligners
Crown lengthening is a specialized periodontal procedure used to expose more of a natural tooth’s structure by gently reshaping the surrounding gum and bone tissue. Whether needed to support a restorative treatment like a dental crown or to improve the appearance of a “gummy” smile, this procedure helps establish a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing gum line. At Zaller Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide precise, gentle periodontal care to help patients achieve optimal oral wellness and beautiful results.
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that involves adjusting the gum tissue and, in some cases, the underlying bone around one or more teeth. By carefully contouring these tissues, more of the tooth’s surface is revealed above the gumline. This can be done for restorative purposes such as when a tooth is heavily decayed or broken below the gumline and needs enough exposed surface to securely hold a new crown or for cosmetic purposes to correct an uneven gum line and reveal a broader, more balanced smile.
We evaluate your gums, teeth, and X-rays to determine the exact amount of tissue and bone reshaping needed for your specific restorative or cosmetic goals.
The treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic to ensure you remain completely comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Excess gum tissue is carefully removed or contoured. If necessary, a small amount of the underlying bone is gently reshaped to adequately expose the healthy tooth structure.
The area is cleaned, and the gums are secured back into place with tiny sutures to promote proper healing and establish a natural-looking gum line.
We provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up visit to monitor your healing, remove sutures, and clear the way for your final restoration if applicable.
Crown lengthening is a highly effective procedure that sets the stage for long-lasting restorations and stunning cosmetic improvements. At Zaller Family Dentistry, we combine advanced techniques with personalized treatment planning and supportive care to help patients restore their dental health and smile with confidence for years to come.
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the treatment. Mild soreness and swelling are common afterward but can typically be managed easily with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice.
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Initial healing of the gums takes a few weeks, but complete tissue maturation (especially if you are waiting to have a permanent crown placed) can take two to three months.
It can be both! It is most often restorative, used to save a damaged tooth and properly prepare it for a crown, but it is also a very popular cosmetic treatment to correct a gummy smile and enhance aesthetics.
When performed correctly, including any necessary bone adjustments, the results of crown lengthening are generally permanent, and the gum tissue will not grow back over the newly exposed tooth.
If the procedure is deemed medically necessary for a restoration (such as saving a decayed tooth), many dental insurance plans will offer partial coverage. Procedures done purely for cosmetic reasons are usually not covered. Our team can help you understand your benefits.
If you have a damaged tooth that needs a crown, or if you are self-conscious about a gummy smile, contact Zaller Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more about crown lengthening. We serve individuals and families inside our office in Reisterstown, with a footprint that spreads throughout Baltimore County. If you’ve been told you may need crown lengthening and want clarity on your options, contact us today or schedule an appointment, and our dental team will patiently guide you through the process!
