Welcome Dr. Neeka Nasrolahi and Dr. Luke Allender. Please click on the link to learn about Dr Alder’s transition and more about our new doctors. Learn More |
Aesthetic Crown Elongation
Grants Pass, OR
A smile is often the first thing people notice, and when excess gum tissue obscures the natural proportions of your teeth, it can affect how confident you feel about your appearance. At Alder Dental, we offer aesthetic crown lengthening as a precise, effective solution for patients whose smiles are impacted by what is commonly called a "gummy" appearance. This procedure goes beyond simply cosmetics. It restores the correct relationship between the gums and teeth, creating a foundation that is both healthier and more visually balanced. What is Aesthetic Crown Lengthening?Aesthetic crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure in which excess gum tissue, and sometimes a small amount of bone, is carefully reshaped to expose more of the natural tooth surface. The term "crown" in this context refers to the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, not a dental crown restoration. When gum tissue covers too much of the tooth, the crown appears shorter than it actually is. By recontouring the tissue, we reveal the full natural length of the tooth, creating a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing smile. Our dentists have specialized training in gum tissue management. The procedure is minimally invasive and completed in a single appointment for most patients. Who Need This Procedure?Aesthetic crown lengthening is appropriate for patients who:
Not every patient with a gummy smile requires this procedure. A thorough clinical evaluation, including X-rays to assess bone levels, helps us determine whether crown lengthening is the most appropriate course of treatment. How Do Patients Know If They Need Crown Lengthening?Patients often come to us already aware that something feels off about their smile, though they may not know the specific cause. Some common signs that aesthetic crown lengthening may be worth discussing include noticing that your upper teeth look shorter or smaller than expected, feeling self-conscious about how much gum shows when you smile, or receiving feedback from another dental provider that your gum levels need to be addressed before cosmetic work can proceed. The most reliable way to know whether this procedure is right for you is through a consultation at Alder Dental. During that visit, we assess the relationship between your gum tissue, the underlying bone, and the actual length of your teeth. This allows us to give you a clear picture of what crown lengthening can accomplish for your specific situation. What the Procedure InvolvesAesthetic crown lengthening is performed under local anesthesia, so you remain comfortable throughout. Once the area is numb, we make small, precise incisions in the gum tissue to gently reposition it and expose more of the tooth surface. In some cases, a small amount of bone at the root of the tooth is also reshaped to achieve the correct proportions and ensure long-term stability of the result. After the tissue is repositioned, sutures are placed to hold everything in position while healing occurs. The appointment typically takes between one and two hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated. Most patients are surprised by how straightforward the experience is from start to finish. Benefits of Aesthetic Crown LengtheningPatients who undergo this procedure often notice improvements that extend beyond their reflection. Key benefits include:
Because the procedure addresses both the tissue and, when needed, the underlying bone, the results are stable and well-supported. Recovery and What To Expect After TreatmentMost patients resume normal, light-duty daily activities within a day or two of the procedure. Some tenderness, minor swelling, and sensitivity near the treated area are common in the first few days and can be managed comfortably with over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. We also provide specific post-operative instructions to support your healing. The gums typically take two to three weeks to heal on the surface, though full tissue maturation, meaning the point at which the final contour is fully visible, occurs over the course of two to three months. If cosmetic restorations are planned in conjunction with crown lengthening, we schedule that follow-up work after the healing period is complete to ensure the most accurate fit and appearance. Is Aesthetic Crown Lengthening Permanent?Once the gum tissue and bone have been reshaped and the area has fully healed, the results are lasting. Gum tissue does not regenerate to its previous level in a healthy, stable case. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular professional cleanings will help preserve both the health of your gums and the appearance of your smile long after the procedure is complete. Schedule a Consultation at Alder DentalIf you have been living with a smile that feels out of proportion, or if another provider has recommended crown lengthening before moving forward with cosmetic treatment, we encourage you to take the next step. At Alder Dental, we take the time to thoroughly evaluate your gum health and discuss all available options before recommending any procedure. Contact our office today at (360) 831-0831 to schedule your consultation and learn whether aesthetic crown lengthening is the right choice for you. |
Office Hours:Monday: 8am - 4:30pm Tuesday: 8am - 5pm Wednesday: 8am - 5pm Thursday: 8am - 5pm Friday: 7am - 2:30pm |
