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Crown lengthening
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure used to expose more of a tooth’s surface by gently reshaping the surrounding gum and, in some cases, bone. It may be recommended for restorative or aesthetic reasons, helping improve access to a tooth or enhance the appearance of the smile.
At Harley Private Dental, crown lengthening is carefully planned and carried out with a strong focus on comfort, precision, and long-term oral health.
What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening involves adjusting the gum level around a tooth to reveal more of the natural tooth structure. This can help create better access for restorative treatments or improve the balance and proportion of the smile.
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthetic and is planned to ensure healthy healing and stable long-term results.
Why might crown lengthening be needed?
Crown lengthening may be recommended for functional or aesthetic reasons.
Functional reasons
Crown lengthening may be required when:
- A tooth is broken or decayed below the gum line
- There is not enough visible tooth structure to support a crown or filling
- A restoration needs better access for long-term stability
In these cases, crown lengthening helps create a predictable foundation for restorative treatment.
Aesthetic reasons
Crown lengthening may also be used to:
- Improve the appearance of a “gummy smile”
- Create more balanced gum levels
- Improve tooth proportions for cosmetic treatment
Your dentist will explain whether crown lengthening is being recommended for functional reasons, aesthetic reasons, or both.
Who is suitable for crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening may be suitable if you:
- Require restorative treatment but lack sufficient visible tooth structure
- Have uneven or excessive gum coverage
- Have healthy gums and good oral hygiene
- Are planning crowns, veneers, or other restorative work
Suitability depends on gum health, bone levels, and overall oral condition. A consultation is required to assess whether crown lengthening is appropriate.
What does the treatment involve?
Crown lengthening is usually carried out in a single appointment and involves:
- Assessment and planning
We assess your gums, teeth, and supporting structures and explain the planned outcome. - Local anaesthetic
The area is numbed to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. - Gum and bone adjustment
The gum tissue is gently reshaped, and if required, small amounts of bone are adjusted to expose more tooth structure. - Healing and review
The area is allowed to heal before any final restorative or cosmetic treatment is completed.
Each step is explained clearly so you know what to expect.
What can I expect after crown lengthening?
After the procedure, it’s normal to experience mild swelling or tenderness for a short period. This typically settles as healing progresses.
Patients are provided with clear aftercare instructions, including:
- How to keep the area clean
- What to eat and drink during healing
- How to manage discomfort
- When to attend follow-up appointments
Healing time varies depending on the extent of treatment and individual factors.
What results can crown lengthening achieve?
Crown lengthening is designed to:
- Improve access for restorative treatments
- Create a stable foundation for crowns or fillings
- Improve gum symmetry and tooth proportions
- Support long-term oral health and function
Final results are discussed during consultation so expectations are clear and realistic.
Is crown lengthening right for me?
Crown lengthening is not required for everyone. A consultation allows us to assess your needs, explain why the procedure may be beneficial, and discuss alternative options where appropriate.
Personalised care starts here
A consultation gives us time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and plan care that’s right for you.
Spread the cost of your treatment
We offer finance options through Chrysalis Finance to help make treatment costs more manageable. This allows eligible patients to spread the cost of treatment over time with clear, structured repayments. Finance is available at a representative 14.9% APR, subject to status and approval.
Our finance calculator provides an indicative example of how treatment costs may be spread into monthly payments based on a 14.9% APR. Simply enter the estimated treatment cost and select a repayment term to view a guide price. Figures shown are for illustration only. Final repayment amounts will be confirmed following consultation and finance approval.
Using the calculator does not commit you to treatment or finance. It is designed to help you understand your options clearly, without pressure. Full details, including repayment terms and eligibility, will always be explained before you proceed.
Frequently asked questions
Practical guidance to help you understand our care, treatments, and what to expect.
Is crown lengthening painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so it is usually comfortable. Some mild discomfort during healing is normal and can usually be managed with recommended aftercare.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing typically takes a few weeks, although full healing may take longer depending on the extent of treatment. Your dentist will advise on timing before further restorative work.
Will crown lengthening change my smile?
Yes, in aesthetic cases it can improve gum balance and tooth proportions. In functional cases, changes are focused on supporting restoration rather than appearance.
Do I always need crown lengthening before a crown?
No. Crown lengthening is only recommended when there is insufficient visible tooth structure to support a restoration safely and predictably.
Our wonderful team
Our team includes experienced general dentists and clinicians with specialist skills. Together we deliver a wide range of treatments under one roof.
Our other treatments
Cosmetic dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth while maintaining oral health and function. Treatments may include whitening, composite bonding, veneers, and aesthetic restorations designed to create natural-looking, balanced results.
Teeth straightening
Teeth straightening is used to improve alignment and bite using discreet orthodontic solutions such as clear aligners. Treatment is planned using digital scans to ensure accuracy, comfort, and predictable tooth movement.