Restoring the Teeth with Crown Lengthening

Posted on 5/1/2026 by Scholes Periodontics & Implants

Have you ever wondered what happens when a tooth breaks near the gum line or has too much decay to hold a filling? Sometimes, just fixing the tooth isn't enough. That's where a procedure called crown lengthening comes in. It's a way to expose more of your tooth so your dentist can properly restore it. It might sound intimidating, but it's a common and predictable procedure with the goal of saving your natural teeth.

What is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure performed by a periodontist or a general dentist with specialized training. It involves reshaping the gum tissue, and sometimes the underlying bone, to expose more of the tooth's surface. Think of it like carefully uncovering a buried treasure. The "treasure" in this case is more of your tooth structure, which is needed to support a crown or other restoration.

Why Might You Need It?

There are several reasons why someone might need crown lengthening.

•	Tooth Decay: If decay extends far below the gum line, it can be difficult to remove all the infected tissue and still have enough healthy tooth remaining to hold a filling or crown. Crown lengthening allows the dentist to access and remove all the decay.
•	Tooth Fracture: A tooth might break at or below the gum line due to trauma or biting down on something hard. Exposing more of the tooth allows for a strong and stable restoration.
•	Insufficient Tooth Structure: Sometimes, even without significant decay or fracture, a tooth may simply not have enough height above the gum line to properly support a crown. Crown lengthening can provide the necessary space.
•	Cosmetic Reasons: In some cases, crown lengthening can be used to improve the appearance of teeth that look too short or "gummy."

The Process

The crown lengthening procedure typically involves a few steps. First, the area is numbed with local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. Then, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to gently separate it from the tooth. Next, the gum tissue is repositioned, and in some cases, a small amount of bone is removed to expose more of the tooth. Finally, the gum tissue is secured with sutures.

Recovery and Oral Care

After the procedure, you'll receive specific instructions for oral care, including how to manage discomfort, clean the area, and what to eat. It's essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing. You'll likely need to use a special mouthwash and brush gently around the surgical site. Pain medication can help manage any discomfort. It is extremely important to maintain excellent oral care to ensure a healthy outcome.

The Role in Restoration Dentistry

Crown lengthening is an important part of restoration dentistry. It allows dentists to save teeth that might otherwise be extracted. By creating enough space for a crown or other restoration, crown lengthening helps to restore the tooth's function, strength, and appearance. It's an investment in your long-term oral health. If your dentist recommends crown lengthening, don't hesitate to ask questions and learn more about how it can benefit you.

Scholes Periodontics & Implants in Chandler, AZ

Scholes Periodontics & Implants
Dr. Scholes
595 N Dobson Rd B#34
Chandler, AZ 85224

O: (480) 786-0940
F: (480) 786-5694

Hours:
Monday: 9:00am-3:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am-4:30pm
Wednesday: 7:00am-4:00pm
Thursday: 7:00am-4:00pm
Friday: 7:00am-1:00pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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Scholes Periodontics and Implants, 595 N Dobson Rd #34, Chandler, AZ 85224 / (480) 786-0940 / scholesperio.com / 5/19/2026 / Related Terms: Dental Implants Chandler AZ /