Sometimes it is necessary to expose additional tooth surface and adjust the bone level in order to extend the height or size of the portion of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. This is done so that the new, restored tooth has enough surface to be held securely in place. Crown lengthening is the procedure that reshapes the gum at the bottom of the specific tooth which requires correcting. If the decay is too severe of if a part of the tooth is missing, crown lengthening can be done to recreate the amount of tooth surface that is exposed so that after the treatment is done, the new tooth stays in its place.

Why is crown lengthening necessary?

Crown lengthening, restoration and correcting can be required due to a number of dental conditions. Some of these conditions include:

• Short tooth
• Severe tooth decay below the gum line
• Tooth that has fractured and broken off beneath the gum

Crown lengthening reduces the bone level and gum tissue which allows better access to the tooth.