Crown Lengthening
Revealing Healthier Smiles with Precision and Care
A beautiful, healthy smile isn’t just about having white teeth—it’s also about balance. Sometimes, a patient may have what is known as a “gummy smile,” or perhaps a tooth is broken or decayed near the gumline, making it difficult to restore. In such cases, Crown Lengthening becomes a vital treatment option.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, Crown Lengthening in the Philippines is one of the specialized periodontal procedures we offer under our comprehensive gum care services. Our highly trained dental professionals—periodontists and oral surgeons—use this technique to reshape the gum and bone structure, exposing more of the tooth’s surface. Whether for health reasons or cosmetic goals, this procedure has helped thousands of our patients achieve more confident and functional smiles.
With clinics in Makati, BGC, Alabang, Ortigas, Parañaque, and Cebu, we make expert periodontal care accessible and comfortable for you.
What is Crown Lengthening?
Crown Lengthening is a minor oral surgical procedure that involves removing or reshaping gum tissue—and sometimes the underlying bone—to expose more of the tooth’s surface. It’s typically done for two primary reasons:
2. Cosmetic Purposes – To improve the appearance of a “gummy smile” or uneven gum line, making the teeth look longer and more proportionate.
Unlike what the name suggests, the procedure doesn’t actually “lengthen” the tooth. Instead, it adjusts the gum and bone levels to reveal more of what’s already there.
Why Crown Lengthening May Be Necessary
Crown lengthening may be recommended if:
• Decay has extended beneath the gum margins
• A dental crown or restoration needs more surface to grip securely
• You want to improve the aesthetics of your smile
• Your gum line is uneven or makes your teeth appear short
In all these cases, crown lengthening allows the dentist to gain proper access to the tooth, ensure long-term success of restorations, and enhance smile symmetry.
The Crown Lengthening Procedure: What to Expect
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we begin with a thorough consultation and assessment using digital X-rays and Cone Beam CT Scans when necessary. We evaluate the gum health, bone support, and the condition of the affected tooth or area. The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, and for anxious patients, Twilight Sedation is available and administered by our board-certified anesthesiologists.
Step-by-Step Overview:
⏱️ The procedure typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of teeth and complexity.
Healing and Recovery
Recovery from crown lengthening is generally smooth, especially when proper aftercare instructions are followed. Most patients return to normal activity within a day or two.
Post-Procedure Tips:
• Avoid hard, spicy, or crunchy foods for a few days.
• Use a soft toothbrush and rinse with a prescribed antibacterial mouthwash.
• Attend your follow-up visit to check healing and remove sutures if necessary.
Gums typically take 1 to 2 weeks to heal initially, and full tissue maturation may take several weeks. Once healed, we proceed with any planned restorations (e.g., crown placement).
Cosmetic Crown Lengthening: Creating Beautiful, Balanced Smiles
Sometimes, patients don’t need crown lengthening for medical reasons—but for aesthetic transformation. When too much gum is covering the teeth, even healthy, white teeth can look small or short. This can make the smile look less balanced or youthful.
Crown lengthening in these cases is part of our cosmetic dentistry approach. We skillfully contour the gum line to reveal the ideal amount of tooth structure, enhancing the proportions of the smile while preserving natural harmony. The results are often dramatic yet natural-looking, and many patients feel a new sense of confidence afterward.
Why Crown Lengthening is an Important Step Before a Dental Crown or Filling
Sometimes, a tooth has broken or decayed so far below the gum line that placing a crown or filling becomes risky or ineffective. Trying to restore a tooth under the gum can lead to:
• Inflammation or chronic gum irritation
• Short-lived crowns or fillings
• Failure of the entire restoration
Crown lengthening solves these problems by creating a stable and healthy environment around the tooth. It allows the dentist to shape the tooth properly, reduce the risk of complications, and ensure your new crown or restoration lasts as long as possible.
Crown Lengthening vs. Other Gum Procedures
Some patients confuse crown lengthening with gum contouring or laser gum lifts, but the differences are important:
| Procedure | Purpose | Involves Bone? | Used For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crown Lengthening | Expose more tooth for crown/restoration or cosmetic improvement | Sometimes | Restorative + Cosmetic |
| Gum Contouring | Aesthetic reshaping of gum line only | No | Cosmetic only |
| Laser Gum Lift | Minimally invasive sculpting of gums | No | Cosmetic, less extensive |
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we assess your unique needs and recommend the most appropriate procedure.
Our Advantage: Why Choose Affinity Dental Clinics
Why choose us for your periodontal care:
We have Periodontal Specialist consultants and trained Oral Surgeons, with a deep understanding of both the functional and aesthetic aspects of crown lengthening.
All our branches are equipped with digital X-rays, Cone Beam CT, and advanced surgical tools for safe and precise treatment.
We understand that surgical procedures can be intimidating. That’s why we offer Conscious Sedation, administered by board-certified anesthesiologists, so you can feel calm and comfortable.
Cleanliness and infection control are a priority. Our clinics have dedicated, sterile treatment rooms to ensure your safety.
Is Crown Lengthening Right for You?
If your dentist has told you that your tooth is too short for a crown—or if you’re unhappy with your “gummy smile”—crown lengthening may be the right solution. At Affinity Dental Clinics, we carefully evaluate your case, explain your options, and only recommend crown lengthening when it is truly beneficial.
Because we practice ethical, patient-centered dentistry, we’ll also be honest if a different approach is better for your situation. That’s what has made Affinity one of the most trusted names in Philippine dentistry for nearly two decades.
Book a Consultation Today
Whether you’re planning for a crown, dealing with deep decay, or dreaming of a more confident smile, Crown Lengthening might be the key to your next dental transformation. Trust our expert team at Affinity Dental Clinics to guide you every step of the way.
Book an appointment today for Crown Lengthening in the Philippines and let’s uncover the healthier, happier smile beneath your gums.
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