Crown Lengthening in Syosset, NY

Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that exposes more of a tooth by carefully reshaping the surrounding gum tissue and, when necessary, the supporting bone. It may be recommended when there is not enough visible tooth structure to securely place a crown, bridge, filling, or other restoration, or when excess gum tissue affects the proportions of your smile.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

During crown lengthening, the gumline is adjusted to expose more of the natural tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone around the tooth may also need to be reshaped so the restorative dentist has enough healthy tooth structure to work with.

At Shine Dental Associates in Syosset, our periodontist evaluates the tooth, gums, and supporting bone to determine the appropriate treatment approach.

When Is Crown Lengthening Recommended?

Crown lengthening may be considered when:

• A tooth is broken or fractured near or below the gumline

• Decay extends beneath the gum tissue

• There is not enough exposed tooth structure to support a crown or other restoration

• Additional tooth structure needs to be exposed before restorative treatment

• Excess gum tissue makes the teeth appear unusually short or creates an uneven gumline

When the goal is primarily cosmetic reshaping of the gums rather than exposing tooth structure for a restoration, gum contouring may be another treatment option.

Restorative and Cosmetic Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening may be performed for restorative reasons, cosmetic reasons, or a combination of both. For restorative treatment, exposing additional tooth structure can help provide access to decay or damage and create sufficient space for a crown, bridge, filling, or veneer.

Cosmetic crown lengthening can also help create a more balanced relationship between the teeth and gums when excess gum tissue makes the teeth appear short.

Crown Lengthening in Syosset, NY

Crown lengthening is typically performed with local anesthesia. The amount of gum tissue or bone that needs to be reshaped depends on the condition of the tooth and the treatment planned afterward.

Our periodontist will evaluate your individual needs and coordinate treatment with your restorative dentist when appropriate.

Call (516) 348-8500 or fill out our online appointment request form to schedule a periodontal evaluation at Shine Dental Associates in Syosset.