If you have a “gummy smile,” you may dislike its appearance and lack confidence when you smile. Or, you may need to have a portion of your gums contoured to make additional room for the placement of a dental restoration, such as a crown or a bridge. Whether it is for oral health purposes or to change the appearance of a gummy smile, crown lengthening at the dental practice of Claire Cho, DDS in Aliso Viejo, CA may be the best choice for you.
What is crown lengthening?
Also called a “gum lift” or “soft tissue recontouring,” crown lengthening can be a cosmetic or restorative procedure that changes the shape of your gum line so that it is more symmetrical, decreasing the amount of gum tissue that is covering the teeth and increasing the length of the visible portion of the tooth crown. For patients who suffer from gum disease, this treatment might be recommended as a way to control the disease by reducing the depth of the pockets that form between your teeth and gums, where bacteria reside and multiply. In other cases, soft tissue recontouring might be recommended to expose more of the tooth if it has become decayed or broken beneath the gumline.
If you are having the procedure done as part of a dental restoration or gum disease treatment plan, only one or a few teeth may be contoured, whereas many patients who have the procedure done for aesthetic purposes have their whole smile treated.
How the procedure is performed
The gummy smile correction procedure is done with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout your treatment. After the area is thoroughly numb, Dr. Cho makes small incisions in precise locations to help separate the teeth and gums. For some patients, a small amount of bone may also need to be removed for a natural appearance or to help shape the area for a new dental restoration.
Once the gum tissue is removed, we sterilize the treatment area and place sutures and a bandage over it to promote healing and healthy re-attachment of the gums.
After your treatment is complete:
- We will schedule a follow-up appointment one to two weeks after your procedure to check on your recovery progress and remove the sutures
- Most patients completely heal within six to eight weeks after the procedure
- After the area has healed, we can place any final restorations such as bridges, veneers, or crowns as needed
Frequently Asked Questions About Gummy Smile
How can crown lengthening improve my smile?
Crown lengthening can correct a gummy smile by exposing more of the natural tooth structure. This procedure reshapes the gum tissue, allowing teeth to appear longer and more proportionate, which enhances both aesthetics and confidence. Patients often notice an immediate improvement in their smile, making it one of the most effective cosmetic solutions for excessive gum display.
What is the typical price for gummy smile treatment or crown lengthening in Sun City, Arizona?
The cost for crown lengthening or gummy smile treatment can vary depending on the number of teeth involved, the complexity of the procedure, and any additional restorative work required. At Wildflower Dental, we provide general price ranges during a consultation and create personalized treatment plans to fit your needs. Factors such as anesthesia options, post-procedure care, and any follow-up appointments may also influence the final cost.
Are there limitations or restrictions for insurance coverage on gummy smile treatment or crown lengthening?
Coverage for crown lengthening and gummy smile treatment depends on your dental insurance plan and whether the procedure is considered cosmetic or medically necessary. Some plans may cover part of the treatment if it improves function or addresses gum health, while purely cosmetic cases may not be covered. Our team at Wildflower Dental in Sun City, Arizona, helps patients verify their benefits and clarify any limitations before starting treatment.
How long does the healing process take after crown lengthening?
Healing after crown lengthening typically takes 1 – 2 weeks for initial recovery, with complete gum stabilization occurring over several months. Patients may experience mild swelling or discomfort during the first few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and proper oral hygiene. Following the dentist’s post-procedure instructions helps ensure smooth healing and optimal results.
How do I find a top-rated provider for gummy smile treatment or crown lengthening close to me?
To locate a reputable provider in your area, consider looking for dentists with specialized training in periodontics or cosmetic dentistry, positive patient reviews, and before-and-after photos of previous cases. Referrals from trusted friends or family can also be valuable. At Wildflower Dental in Sun City, Arizona, our experienced team combines advanced techniques with a patient-focused approach, ensuring both comfort and predictable results.
Can crown lengthening help with restorative dental procedures?
Yes. Crown lengthening is often performed before placing crowns, veneers, or other restorations to expose sufficient tooth structure for a secure and long-lasting fit. By creating the proper tooth-to-gum ratio, this procedure improves the durability and appearance of dental restorations while reducing the risk of complications like gum irritation or crown failure.
What should I expect during a gummy smile treatment or crown lengthening procedure?
During the procedure, the dentist carefully reshapes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth surface. Local anesthesia is typically used to ensure comfort, and the process can be completed in a single appointment for minor cases. Patients may experience mild sensitivity afterward, but most can resume normal activities quickly. Follow-up visits allow the dentist to monitor healing and ensure the gums settle naturally around the teeth for a balanced, attractive smile.
To learn more about gummy smile treatment or crown lengthening to restore oral health, call the dental practice of Claire Cho, D.D.S. today! Our Aliso Viejo office serves patients in the Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Laguna Woods, and neighboring communities and can be reached at (949) 541-2529.
