Crown Lengthening Surgery
Exposing Tooth, Protecting Restorations

Crown lengthening begins with a detailed periodontal assessment including bone sounding, a probing technique that maps the exact level of supporting bone around the tooth. This measurement determines precisely how much tissue and bone must be repositioned to expose adequate tooth structure for crown retention, without violating the biological width that protects the attachment apparatus.

Profound local anesthesia is administered to ensure complete comfort throughout the procedure. Our providers use a minimally invasive approach that preserves as much healthy gum tissue as possible while achieving the clinical objectives. The surgical field is carefully managed to minimise bleeding and maintain clear visibility throughout the procedure.

Incisions are made to reflect a flap of gum tissue, exposing the underlying bone. Bone is then carefully recontoured to create adequate space between the bone crest and the planned crown margin—typically, at least 3mm of tooth structure must be exposed. This bone recontouring is what distinguishes crown lengthening from simple gingivectomy and ensures the result is stable long-term.

The gum flap is repositioned at the new, lower gingival level and secured with sutures placed to promote optimal healing and tissue adaptation. Our providers use suture techniques that minimise scar tissue formation and encourage the gingival margin to heal in a stable, aesthetic position. Post-operative instructions include chlorhexidine rinse and dietary guidelines to protect the surgical site.

The restorative dentist should not prepare the crown until the gingival tissues have fully matured, typically 6–8 weeks post-surgery. Premature crown placement risks disrupting healing and producing a restoration with an inaccurate margin position. At PAAD, we coordinate the transition from surgery to crown preparation, communicating margin locations to the restorative team to ensure a perfectly integrated final result.