. Health Library - South Houston Oral, Facial and Implant Surgery Center

Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Periodontal Disease: Crown LengtheningLa enfermedad periodontal: Alargamiento de corona

Periodontal Disease: Crown Lengthening

When you look in the mirror, does your gumline look uneven? Or do you see too little gum? These are common effects of periodontal disease. A type of gum surgery called gingival surgery can lower or even out the gumline. And if more of the tooth needs to be exposed, gingival surgery can fix that, too. One type of gingival surgery is called crown lengthening.

Functional crown lengthening: Gum and bone are removed. The remaining portion of the tooth can now support a replacement crown.

 

Cosmetic crown lengthening: Removing gum can create a more attractive smile.

 

How Crown Lengthening Works

Surgery to expose more of the crown (the part of the tooth you can see) includes:

  • Functional lengthening. In some cases, a restoration (artificial crown) is needed. Gum and bone are removed to expose enough tooth to anchor the new crown. This also helps prevent future damage to gum and bone near the restoration.

  • Cosmetic lengthening. This is done to remove an overgrowth of gum tissue that causes a "gummy" smile. It can improve appearance and may make teeth easier to keep clean.

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Discover the possibilities of noninvasive procedures from an oral surgeon. Call 281-412-0099 or use our convenient online Request an Appointment form.

What Our Clients Say About Us

My name Is Judith O. I had the pleasure to meet Dr. Luis Craig when I was having problems with my vision, my skin wouldn’t allow me to open my eyes or see peripherally completely. My Optometrist suggested I should have “bleph". I was referred to Dr Craig, an excellent person and a great surgeon. He performed my surgery, with no complications, and in a week nobody could tell I had anything done. Not even my Optometrist. She was happy, like me, with the outcome. My vision improved 100%. Thank you Dr Craig. May God bless you and your hands.
Sincerely, Judith, O