Crown lengthening surgery

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure,designed to remove the excess gum tissue around the tooth. This often results in a dramatic cosmetic improvement in those patients with a "gummy smile."
Crown lengthening may also be needed before placing a filling or crown, in order to expose decay or a crack in the tooth which is present below the gumline. If the crown is placed without the crown lengthening, the gums will be constantly irritated. The gums will be red, and often bleed with brushing or flossing. If not corrected, irreversible bone loss will occur.