Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is a common procedure done when not enough of the tooth is exposed for a filling or crown.
What to expect
A consultation with a periodontist to review your medical history and X-rays will be scheduled. A tooth cleaning may also be scheduled before the surgery to prepare your teeth. Your dentist might place a temporary crown to protect your teeth and see how much tissue will need to be removed.
During the procedure
The periodontist will gently push your gums away to see the roots and bone. Removing a small amount of gum tissue can be enough to place a crown or filling. In other cases, some bone from around the roots will also need to be removed. Once enough tooth is exposed, the gums will be stitched together.
After the procedure
Slight swelling should be expected. You may receive a prescribed pain reliever and an antibacterial mouth rinse. A follow up visit will be scheduled a week or two after the surgery to remove the stitches. Three months after the surgery your gums will be fully healed and the crown can then be placed.
Available Practices
The practices below offer this specialty care. Select a practice that best meets your budget and availability for appointments.
Resident Practice
We offer comprehensive dental care performed by dental residents who have already received professional dental degrees and are completing advanced training under the supervision of dental faculty.
Average Cost: Fees average 60% of the cost of private practice
Appointment Time: Slightly longer than private practice
Education: Graduate dentists completing advanced training
Faculty Practice
The Faculty Practice at UT Dentistry is staffed by licensed dentists who are also on faculty at the School of Dentistry. When you receive treatment by dentists from the School of Dentistry, you'll get services and expertise from seasoned professionals who also teach our future dentists. Our office has the feel of a private practice with the resources of a nationally recognized dental school.
Average Cost: Equal to private practice
Appointment Time: Equal to private practice
Education: Faculty dentists