Reveal a More Confident, Balanced Smile
Some patients feel self-conscious about having a “gummy smile” or teeth that appear too short. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone— this is a common concern that can often be corrected with a simple crown lengthening procedure.
At Dr. Fred Alger Periodontics & Implants, we provide cosmetic crown lengthening to reshape the gum line and reveal more of your natural teeth, creating a more balanced and beautiful smile. Dr. Alger combines advanced periodontal surgery training with a gentle touch to enhance both your confidence and your oral health.
What Is Cosmetic Crown Lengthening?
Cosmetic crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure that removes small amounts of excess gum tissue and sometimes a bit of underlying bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. The goal is to correct an excessive gingival display, the technical term for a gummy smile, and help you achieve a more natural tooth-to-gum ratio.
In addition to aesthetic purposes, crown lengthening can also serve restorative purposes, such as exposing enough tooth structure for a dental crown, veneer, or other dental restoration. It’s a precise, conservative treatment that produces long-lasting improvements.
When Is Crown Lengthening Recommended?
After Crown Lengthening by Dr. Alger
Before Crown Lengthening
Dr. Alger may recommend cosmetic crown lengthening surgery for several reasons:
- You feel your smile shows too much gum and not enough tooth.
- You have uneven gum tissue that makes your teeth appear different lengths.
- You’re preparing for future dental work, such as a dental crown or restorative work, that requires more adequate tooth structure.
- There is excess gingival display due to genetics, orthodontic treatment, or medication use.
This procedure is often performed for aesthetic concerns, but it also plays an important role in maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing tooth decay along the gum line.
The Cosmetic Crown Lengthening Process
Most patients are surprised by how comfortable and straightforward this surgical procedure is. Here’s what you can expect:
- Consultation and Evaluation
During your initial visit, Dr. Alger will examine your gum tissue, tooth structure, and overall oral health to determine whether crown lengthening is the best solution. - Local Anesthesia for Comfort
The area is numbed using local anesthesia so you remain relaxed and pain-free throughout treatment. - Reshaping the Gum Line
Dr. Alger gently removes or repositions small amounts of soft tissue and, if necessary, adjusts a tiny portion of underlying bone to create a natural, even gum line. - Surgical Site Care
Once reshaped, the surgical area is cleaned and sutured to encourage proper healing. The procedure typically takes about one hour, depending on the number of teeth involved.
Aftercare and Healing
Following your crown lengthening surgery, you’ll receive personalized aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery. Most patients report only mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication or any prescribed relief from Dr. Alger.
You may be advised to follow a soft-food diet for a few days and to avoid brushing directly on the surgical site until the tissue has healed. Keeping up with good oral hygiene and following all post-op guidance minimizes the risk of infection and supports optimal healing.
Within a few weeks, swelling subsides and your gum line stabilizes, revealing your new, more balanced smile.
Benefits of Cosmetic Crown Lengthening
There are both aesthetic and functional benefits to this treatment, including:
- A perfect smile with improved tooth-to-gum proportions
- A smoother, more symmetrical gum line
- Greater confidence in your smile’s appearance
- Enhanced oral hygiene due to easier access for brushing and flossing
- Exposure of enough tooth structure for restorative work
- Long-term results compared to temporary cosmetic options
Unlike dermal fillers or Botox, which only camouflage the issue, crown lengthening permanently adjusts the amount of gum tissue visible in your smile.
How Crown Lengthening Differs From Other Procedures
While treatments like veneers or whitening address tooth color and shape, crown lengthening focuses on the soft tissue framing your teeth. It may also be necessary before certain dental restorations or dental implants, ensuring proper fit and longevity.
Because Dr. Alger specializes in periodontal surgery, he is uniquely qualified to perform this delicate treatment with precision and an emphasis on patient comfort and long-term oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Local anesthesia ensures you’re comfortable throughout. Afterward, most patients only experience mild discomfort easily managed with counter pain medication.
Healing generally takes two to three weeks. The soft tissue continues to mature for a few months, but most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two.
Yes. The improvements from crown lengthening are long-lasting with proper care and better oral hygiene habits.
Yes. Crown lengthening can be combined with restorative purposes like preparing for a dental crown or with cosmetic treatments to create your best, most natural smile.
Dr. Alger has helped countless patients in Columbus achieve beautiful, confident smiles through precise, conservative periodontal care. His extensive experience in crown lengthening surgery and cosmetic periodontal treatment ensures every detail of your smile is in expert hands.
Whether you were referred by your general dentist or found us independently, Dr. Alger will meet with you to evaluate your aesthetic concerns, explain your treatment options, and help you make an informed choice for your smile.