Gummy Smile - Crown Lengthening

Cosmetic Dentist Serving San Jose, Sunnyvale and the Bay Area

Most people will show some gum when smiling or in conversation. When too much gum tissue is exposed it can be a source of embarrassment. Fortunately, this problem can usually be corrected through cosmetic dentistry treatments like smile makeovers.

Periodontal plastic surgery can eliminate or improve gummy smiles. In rare cases called maxillary excess, complex oral surgery procedures may be required. These are performed by maxillo-facial surgeons in a hospital and are beyond the scope of Dr. Wayland’s practice.

Periodontal plastic surgery

Specialists called periodontists normally perform periodontal plastic surgery. The procedure, called crown lengthening, usually involves the removal of a small amount of gum tissue and sometimes underlying bone as well.

This is a relatively benign operation that usually takes about an hour
Post-operative discomfort is mild and can be controlled with ibuprofen
Initial healing is rapid with final healing in about 8 weeks

Crown lengthening is followed by the placement of porcelain veneers.

In many cases the excessive gum tissue may be limited to a few teeth. These patients have an uneven smile and the crown lengthening is only done on the teeth that have excessive gum.

Another possibility is a hypermobile lip or asymmetry of the lips when smiling. These problems can usually be improved with periodontal plastic surgery. However, in extreme cases, they may require a visit to a plastic surgeon.

How crown lengthening is done

Crown lengthening procedures are usually done in the dental office with local anesthesia, such as lidocaine. Oral or IV sedation may be used if you feel apprehensive.

The surgery is usually planned backwards from the final desired result.

Plaster models and photographs of the teeth are used to calculate the ideal length of the two front teeth. Once this is determined, the remaining crown lengthening can be done based on this ideal length.
The technician will create a new diagnostic plaster model based on the ideal cosmetic result. A plastic guide, called a stent or template, is then made for the surgeon.
The surgeon uses the template as a guide during surgery. The gum tissue is gently moved away from the tooth root and underlying bone. The bone is then shaped to the new position. The gum tissue is then replaced with delicate sutures into the new position that follows the bone contour.

This is the classic crown lengthening procedure. There are select cases that do not require the removal of bone. After examining your teeth, Dr. Wayland can determine which type of procedure would be best for you.

Cosmetic crown lengthening is frequently the most dramatic change in cosmetic dentistry.

Having gum tissue that covers too much of your teeth can be embarrassing. If you would like to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry, contact Dr. Wayland today to schedule your initial consultation.

Common Dental Problems

Frequently Asked Gummy Smile Questions

If you would like to learn more about crown lengthening or any of the procedures or treatments Dr. Wayland provides, or if you would like to find out what cosmetic dentistry techniques he can use to correct your smile, contact him today to schedule your initial consultation.