NORTHERN COLORADO PERIODONTICS
CROWN LENGTHENING
What is crown lengthening?
Why Crown Lengthening Is Essential For Restorations
Crown lengthening is a specialized procedure that gives your restoring dentist the ability to deliver high-quality, long-lasting crowns or other restorations. Teeth needing crowns often present challenges, such as being too short to properly retain the crown or having deep decay that extends beneath the gum line. Without addressing these issues, restorations may fail, leaving you with ongoing dental frustrations.
This procedure is especially beneficial for patients facing challenges with dental restorations. Teeth that are too short or have decay below the gumline can make it difficult to properly secure crowns or other restorations. By exposing more of the tooth structure, this procedure allows for a more secure fit and a natural appearance while reducing the risk of gum damage, inflammation, and future complications such as gum disease.
When there’s excess gum or bone, teeth can appear too small, and crowns may not securely fit, often causing them to fall off. Additionally, cavities or cracks that extend below the gumline make it difficult to restore the tooth without harming the gums. This can lead to inflamed or irritated gums, bone loss, or even gum disease like periodontitis, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
Crown Lengthening Solutions
A Healthier, More Natural, Cosmetic Result That Will Last A Lifetime
A crown lengthening procedure resolves these problems by reshaping the gums and underlying bone. This process exposes more of the tooth structure, providing better support for restorative dental work such as crowns or fillings. With a longer, properly prepared tooth surface, your dentist gains the ability to craft crowns that fit securely and look natural.
For cases with cavities or damage below the gum line, this procedure provides access to these hard-to-reach areas, ensuring they can be restored without affecting gum health. This reduces the risk of gum damage, inflammation, or complications like gum disease. The result is a restoration that not only lasts longer but also improves overall oral health and aesthetics.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A Guide To Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a straightforward and efficient procedure that typically takes about an hour. Performed under local anesthesia, the process is similar to getting a dental filling in terms of comfort.
Recovery is usually quick, allowing you to return to your daily life with minimal downtime. After the gums and bone are reshaped, your restoring dentist gains the precision and space needed to create crowns or restorations with a secure fit and natural appearance. This results in a healthier, more attractive smile that stands the test of time.
WHY CHOOSE NOCO PERIO?
Your Trusted Partner In Periodontal Care
At Northern Colorado Periodontics, we understand the critical connection between gum health and long-term oral wellness. That’s why we proudly offer crown lengthening procedures, designed to enhance both the function and aesthetics of your smile. This specialized treatment reshapes the gums and underlying bone, providing a strong foundation for restorative dental work while preserving the health of your gums.
Invest in your dental health and aesthetics with crown lengthening. This procedure supports not only better restorations but also long-term oral well-being, giving you the confidence of a durable and beautiful smile! At Northern Colorado Periodontics, we are committed to delivering expert care through gentle, effective solutions tailored to support your lasting oral health.
FAQs
About
Crown Lengthening
What is crown lengthening and why is it done?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that reshapes excess gum and bone tissue to expose more of the natural tooth. At NOCO Perio in Fort Collins and Greeley, CO, crown lengthening may be recommended to improve the appearance of a “gummy smile,” make teeth look longer, or to prepare a tooth for a restoration such as a crown, bridge, or veneer.
Am I a candidate for crown lengthening?
You may be a candidate if you have short-looking teeth, excess gum tissue, or need additional tooth structure exposed for a restorative procedure. During your consultation at our Fort Collins or Greeley office, our periodontists will determine if crown lengthening is right for your needs — whether cosmetic or functional.
How much does crown lengthening cost?
The cost depends on how many teeth are being treated and the complexity of the procedure. At NOCO Perio, we provide transparent pricing during your consultation in Fort Collins or Greeley. While cosmetic crown lengthening is usually elective, functional procedures (to allow a proper crown or filling) may be partially covered by insurance. Financing options through CareCredit and Cherry® are also available.
What is recovery like after crown lengthening?
Most patients in Fort Collins and Greeley experience mild soreness or swelling for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Healing typically takes a few weeks, though full gum and bone stabilization may require a few months before final restorations are placed. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
What are the benefits of crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening offers both cosmetic and functional benefits. Patients in Fort Collins and Greeley choose this treatment to:
Create a more balanced, attractive smile by reducing excess gum tissue.
Expose more tooth structure for restorative dentistry (crowns, bridges, veneers).
Improve oral hygiene by making teeth easier to clean.
Strengthen long-term success of restorative and cosmetic dental work.
