Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue and, where needed, reshapes the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth’s natural crown. Teeth that were previously hidden beneath overgrown tissue appear longer, more defined, and better proportioned to the surrounding gumline. The procedure serves two primary purposes: correcting a gummy smile for cosmetic reasons and preparing a tooth that lacks enough visible structure above the gumline to securely hold a crown or restoration.
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A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis published in PubMed Central confirmed that crown lengthening surgery produces significant, measurable improvements in periodontal tissue at treated sites compared to adjacent and untreated areas. This research reflects what our periodontist sees clinically: when planned and executed with care, crown lengthening delivers stable, lasting results.