Crown Lengthening/gingivectomy

Why would I need crown lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a relatively conservative surgery that may be needed for two main reasons to improve the health of the gum tissue around a tooth.  Dr. Meltzer or Dr. Kang will determine the need for this procedure during a thorough examination.

A “gummy smile” refers to excess gum tissue around teeth, which may not be esthetically pleasing. Crown lengthening/gingivectomy is done in these situations to reshape the gum tissue around existing teeth to create a more esthetically pleasing smile.

Crown lengthening may also be needed your tooth needs a new crown or restoration. Sometimes, the edges of that restoration ends up too deep below the gum tissue.  Crown lengthening creates additional space to the edge of the restoration, ensuring a proper fit and long-term stability.