Crown Lengthening in Marquette, MI
No More “Gummy” Smile
Does your smile show more gum tissue than tooth? Do you need more visible tooth structure to support a crown? Either way, crown lengthening at Northern Trails Dental Care is designed to reveal more tooth structure to enhance the appearance of a “gummy” smile or prepare your tooth for healthy restoration.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a precise periodontal procedure that removes excess gum tissue.
If needed, we’ll also reshape the underlying bone to expose more of your tooth. The results are both cosmetic and functional, helping patients throughout Marquette, MI, achieve healthier, more balanced smiles.
Crown lengthening includes:
- Careful removal of excess gum tissue
- Reshaping of underlying bone when needed
- Exposure of additional tooth structure
- Recontouring for improved tooth-to-gum proportions
- Access to decay or damage hidden below the gum line
The procedure itself typically takes one to two hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and heal completely within a few weeks.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
By resolving gummy smiles, revealing more tooth structure, and accessing hidden damage, crown lengthening supports better dental health and a smile you’re proud to show.
- Cosmetic Concerns: If you’ve always felt your teeth look short or your smile shows too much gum tissue, crown lengthening can create more balanced proportions. This procedure is particularly effective for patients whose gums cover a significant portion of their teeth, making them appear smaller than they really are.
- Restorative Needs: When a tooth is decayed or broken below the gum line, or when there isn’t enough tooth structure exposed to hold a crown, crown lengthening provides the access needed for successful restoration. This helps your crown fit properly and last as long as possible.
- Periodontal Health: Deep gum pockets around teeth can harbor bacteria and make thorough cleaning difficult. By removing excess tissue and reshaping the gum line, crown lengthening can make it easier to maintain healthy gums and reduce your risk of gum disease.
Use the slider handle on the images below to view before and after photos.
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What to Expect: The Crown Lengthening Process
Initial Consultation
Dr. Buck will examine your gums and teeth, discuss your goals, and determine whether crown lengthening is the right solution. We’ll take any necessary X-rays or measurements and explain exactly what the procedure will involve.
The Procedure
Using laser technology and local anesthesia (with nitrous oxide available if desired), we’ll carefully remove excess gum tissue and reshape the area to expose more of your natural tooth. The laser minimizes bleeding and promotes faster healing compared to traditional surgical methods.
Recovery and Healing
Most patients manage any discomfort with over-the-counter pain medication. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and schedule a follow-up visit to check your progress. Complete healing typically occurs within two to four weeks, though you’ll notice improvement much sooner.
Final Results
Once healing is complete, you’ll see the full effect of your more balanced smile. If crown lengthening was performed to prepare for a restoration, we’ll proceed with placing your crown once the tissue has fully healed.
Why Choose Northern Trails Dental Care for Crown Lengthening?
At Northern Trails Dental Care, crown lengthening combines advanced technology with personalized attention to your comfort and goals.
- Experienced Care: Dr. Buck has extensive training in periodontal procedures and restorative dentistry
- Modern Technology: Laser dentistry offers more precise results with less discomfort and faster healing
- Comfort Options: Nitrous oxide sedation available for patients who experience dental anxiety
- Comprehensive Approach: We consider both the cosmetic and functional aspects of your treatment
- Clear Communication: You’ll understand exactly what to expect before, during, and after your procedure
Whether you’re seeking a more confident smile or preparing teeth for restoration, the results support your long-term oral health.
Schedule Your Crown Lengthening Consultation in Marquette, MI
Ready to reveal a more balanced smile? A consultation gives us the chance to evaluate your needs, answer your questions, and develop a treatment plan that makes sense for you.
, the image or video has been created in part by artificial intelligence models.
