Aesthetic crown lengthening, also known as a gum lift or a gingivectomy, is a dental surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the smile by exposing more of the natural tooth structure. It involves reshaping the gum line and, in some cases, adjusting the underlying bone to create a more harmonious and visually appealing smile.

Aesthetic crown lengthening is a permanent periodontal dentistry procedure that alters the appearance of the gum line and tooth structure. Proper evaluation and planning are crucial to ensure the best aesthetic results.

Objective of Crown Lengthening:

• The main goal of aesthetic crown lengthening is to enhance the balance and proportions of the teeth and gums, resulting in a more pleasing smile.
• It can be performed on a single tooth or multiple teeth to create a uniform gum line and reveal more of the tooth’s surface, particularly if the teeth appear short or uneven due to excess gum tissue.

Indications:

• Excessive or uneven gum tissue, making the teeth appear short or small.
• Gummy smile, where a significant portion of the gums is visible when smiling.
• Uneven gum line, creating an asymmetrical or imbalanced appearance.

Crown Lengthening Procedure:

• Consultation and Evaluation: The process starts with a thorough evaluation of your oral health. One of our dentists will do this including the assessment of gum health, tooth structure, and smile aesthetics. X-rays and other imaging may also be used for a comprehensive evaluation.
• Local Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area and ensure comfort during the crown lengthening procedure.
• Gum Reshaping: One of our dentists will carefully remove excess gum tissue, reshaping the gum line to expose more of the tooth’s surface. In some cases, a small amount of bone may also be removed to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
• Suture Placement: Sutures (stitches) are placed to help the gums heal in the desired position and to minimise bleeding and aid in the healing process.

Recovery and Aftercare:

• Patients typically experience some discomfort and swelling after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and prescribed antibiotics, if necessary.
• Proper oral hygiene practices and follow-up appointments at our are essential to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal results.
• Soft foods and gentle oral care routines are recommended during the initial recovery period.

Benefits of Aesthetic Crown Lengthening:

• Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: Aesthetic crown lengthening can create a more balanced and visually pleasing smile by exposing more of the natural teeth.
• Improved Proportions: It helps in achieving an appropriate balance between the teeth and gums, creating a more attractive smile.
• Boosted Confidence: Patients often experience increased self-confidence and satisfaction with their smile after undergoing aesthetic crown lengthening.

Get in touch with a member of our team to find out more about aesthetic crown lengthening or arrange a consultation now