Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening (or crown exposure) is required when your tooth needs a new crown or other restoration and the existing restoration is deep below the gum line or there is deep decay or fracture of the tooth.

The procedure involves adjusting the level of the gum tissue and bone around the tooth to create a new gum-to-tooth relationship. This allows your dentist to reach the edge of the restoration, ensuring a proper fit to the tooth. It should also provide enough tooth structure so the new restoration will not come loose in the future. This allows you to clean the edge of the restoration when you brush and floss to prevent decay and gum disease. This very common procedure is usually performed by Dr. Bloch in less than one hour.

When the procedure is completed, sutures and a protective bandage are placed to help secure the new gum-to-tooth relationship. You will need to be seen in one or two weeks to remove the sutures and evaluate your healing. Following adequate healing, you will return to your restorative dentist for the completion of tooth treatment.