What Is Esthetic Crown Lengthening?

Esthetic Crown Lengthening is the exposure of more tooth structure to create a more harmonious and esthetically pleasing smile. Many people are affected by "gummy smiles" due to genetics or incomplete eruption of teeth.

One of the main reasons people show excess gingiva is due to a process called delayed passive eruption.

Gummy Smile Treatment Options

A "gummy smile" (excessive gum tissue visible when you smile) can result from several conditions:

Altered passive eruption: Gum tissue fails to recede fully as teeth erupt
Hyperactive upper lip: The lip rises higher than average, exposing more gum
Vertical maxillary excess: A longer than average upper jaw
Worn or short teeth: Teeth that have ground down appear smaller beneath the gums

Gummy smile treatment options include esthetic crown lengthening, gum contouring, lip repositioning, and in some cases orthodontic or surgical jaw correction. During your consultation, Dr. Woolsey will evaluate your specific anatomy and recommend the most appropriate approach.

Phases Of Eruption:

There are two phases of eruption:

(1) Active Eruption:

The actual movement of the teeth into position.

(2) Passive Eruption

The movement of the gum and bone down to expose the full crown. With delayed passive eruption, the gum tissue is actually covering part of the crown that should be exposed. A simple and quick procedure can expose the healthy and harmonious smile that you were born with that has been simply hiding underneath the gums.

In other cases, gummy smiles can be a result of overdeveloped maxilla and/or overactive lip. These cases, while requiring more in depth treatment plans, can also be improved significantly. Typically these cases involve interdisciplinary treatment, including exposure of the tooth (periodontist) with restorative crown or veneer (general dentist).

Cosmetic Gum Surgery: What to Expect

Cosmetic gum surgery at Emerald Coast Periodontics is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia.

Before: Your consultation includes a thorough exam, photos, and digital imaging. Dr. Woolsey will discuss your smile goals and create a personalized treatment plan.

During: Using precision instruments (often laser-assisted), excess gum tissue is gently removed and sculpted. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the number of teeth treated.

After: Mild soreness is normal for 2 to 3 days. Most patients return to normal activities the next day. Full gum healing takes 6 to 8 weeks, with final results visible at 3 months.

Am I a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for esthetic crown lengthening or gum contouring if you:

Feel your teeth appear too short or your smile shows excess gum
Have uneven or asymmetrical gum lines
Need crown lengthening to prepare teeth for veneers or crowns
Are in good general and oral health
Have realistic expectations about outcomes

Dr. Woolsey will review your dental history, examine your gum and tooth structure, and recommend the most appropriate approach for your goals.

Recovery Timeline

Recovery varies by procedure extent and individual healing:

Days 1 to 3: Soreness, minor swelling. Use pain relief as directed.
Week 1: Stitches removed if needed. Soft diet recommended.
Weeks 2 to 6: Gum tissue heals and firms up. Avoid aggressive brushing near the treated area.
Months 2 to 3: Final gum line settles into its permanent shape.

Following post-operative care instructions is the single most important factor in achieving the best result.

If you feel you have a gummy smile and would like a consultation, please schedule an appointment.

Schedule Your Appointment