A “gummy smile” detracts from the appeal of your natural smile and can lead to periodontal problems in the future. If your teeth appear stubby, short, or uneven, our doctors can perform a crown lengthening or cosmetic gum lift. The procedure is simple and can be performed in a single visit to the Forte Implant Center.

Crown lengthening or a cosmetic gum lift involves removing excess soft tissue to establish the correct cosmetic tooth proportions. In most cases, the underlying bone will have to be changed as well because the bone position determines where the gums will attach. If the bone is not changed, the gums can regrow and cover the teeth again. A cosmetic gum lift will expose more of your tooth and reveal your naturally beautiful smile. Our doctors may perform a crown lengthening prior to – or in conjunction with – crown placement to ensure the crown fits securely over your natural tooth. We also perform gum lifts after implant placement for cosmetic and oral health reasons.

Our doctors routinely perform crown lengthening or gum lifts in his office. The procedure will take about an hour, and patients usually require only local anesthesia. The surgery is highly predictable, and patients respond very well.

After your crown lengthening or gum lift, you should limit extreme physical activity for the following few days. Rinse only with warm saltwater for the first week. You can begin brushing the affected area gently after three days. Our doctors will remove the sutures within a week. Don’t be alarmed if the sutures come out on their own; this is typical and will not cause any problems.

If you have any questions about crown lengthening or cosmetic gum lifts or dental implants, make an appointment with the Forte Implant Center for a complimentary consultation. The Forte Implant Center is a state-of-the-art office dedicated to general dentistry, personalized cosmetic and implant dentistry.