Gum
Contouring
in London

Occasionally there is not enough tooth surface above the gum line to support a crown; this is when crown lengthening is necessary.

Crown lengthening removes gum and bone tissues, exposing more of the tooth to allow room for the new crown. Crown lengthening is sometimes also a cosmetic procedure option for patients with a “gummy smile,” which means you have too much gum tissue around your teeth.

What is the crown lengthening treatment process?

Your treatment plan will be discussed during your initial consultation with your dentist. The treatment length depends on how many teeth are affected and the amount of gum and bone around your teeth.

During the next appointment, a local anaesthetic is applied to the area. Your dentist will then cut into the gum tissue to expose the tooth roots and bone tissue. If it is enough only to remove some of the gum tissue to expose more of the tooth, the treatment will be finished by stitching up the incision. If bone is also removed, the process will take a bit longer since the exposed tooth and bone will need to be shaved down to the desired thickness.

How long does a crown lengthening take to heal?

It may take three months to heal completely. Dr Kalsi will create a personalised aftercare plan specifically for your case.

To facilitate the healing process, there are few things you should keep in mind the days immediately following your procedure: avoid strenuous activities and stick to soft foods that will not irritate the fresh wound.

You cannot brush the teeth immediately but Dr Kalsi will provide you with a care package to keep the area clean.

If you believe that you could benefit from a crown lengthening treatment, schedule your initial consultation now.

Gum Sculpting/ Gum Lift/Crown Lengthening Surgery

What will it involve?

This may be carried out for teeth which are extensively broken down and require more sound tooth structure above the gum line to allow for a restoration/crown to be placed. Crown lengthening is also used to treat “gummy” smiles or to increase the length of short teeth. This procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic and you will be comfortable throughout the procedure. It will involve raising a gum flap. The bone and gum will then be re-shaped to the required amount. At the end of the procedure, the gum will be stitched back to the appropriate place. A dressing may be placed. You will need to come back 1-2 weeks later for the stitches to be removed and will be reviewed regularly thereafter. Dr Kalsi will place your provisional and definitive restoration(s)/crown(s)/bridge(s) if appropriate.

Benefits

To expose more of the tooth structure to allow placement of a filling/ crown/bridge.
To bring decay or restoration margins (edges) above the gum line so that the teeth can be restored.
To lengthen the teeth to improve smile aesthetics/appearance.

Risks

Pain can be managed using over-the-counter painkillers and these are usually required for 1 week
Swelling and bruising may occur depending on the length and extent of the procedure.
A temporary increase in bleeding from the gums.
Sensitivity but this is usually short-lasting and can be managed with toothpastes designed to reduce sensitivity.
Due to the reshaping of the gum, there may be recession and the teeth may look longer. The spaces between them may be larger.
Bone removal and gum reshaping may be required for the adjacent teeth.
Transient or permanent tooth looseness.