When it comes to creating a radiant, confident smile, ROC Perio & Implants in Rochester, NY is the go-to destination for specialized treatments. Our highly experienced periodontists, Dr. Ke Shang, DMD, FRCDC; Dr. Roxanne Lowenguth, DDS, MS; and Dr. Stephen Phillips, DDS, offers a breakthrough service known as a crown lengthening procedure.

Clinical crown lengthening is a procedure to remove excess gum tissue and bone. Whether you are searching for a premier periodontist in Rochester or live in nearby areas throughout Monroe County like Brighton, Henrietta, and Pittsford, our state-of-the-art crown lengthening treatment can redefine your smile and boost your self-esteem.

What is a Crown Lengthening Procedure?

Crown lengthening is a common periodontal surgery performed to expose more of a tooth's surface. When teeth look too short, they are often simply covered with excess gum tissue; the underlying tooth structure is actually the correct size, but it remains hidden.

Our team uses specialized techniques to lower the gum line, establishing a healthy and natural balance around the teeth. This procedure can be performed on a single tooth to correct an uneven line, or across many teeth to transform an entire smile.

Functional and Aesthetic Benefits of Crown Lengthening

The crown lengthening treatment offers both essential functional advantages and dramatic aesthetic improvements:

• 1. Aesthetic Advantages (Fixing a Gummy Smile): The star of the show for many patients is its cosmetic appeal. If a prominent gum line causes you to feel self-conscious about a gummy smile, crown lengthening removes that excessive tissue. This alters the overall look of your mouth, giving you a broader, beautifully proportioned, and enhanced smile that lights up a room.
• 2. Functional and Restorative Necessity: Beyond cosmetics, crown lengthening is frequently required to prepare the mouth for restorative dentistry. If a tooth is broken down or severely damaged by decay or a deep cavity near the gum line, there may not be enough visible tooth structure available. Your general dentist cannot securely attach a new crown or bridge if the tooth is covered with excess gum tissue. If a dental restoration is forced onto an inadequate foundation, it can trap harmful bacteria, cause chronic inflammation, and lead to a persistent infection or future tooth loss. Crown lengthening safely adjusts the gum tissue and bone levels to expose more stable tooth structure, ensuring your new crown fits securely, stays clean, and remains functional for life.

How Does It Differ From Other Cosmetic Gum Treatments?

While there are various temporary or less comprehensive ways to alter gum aesthetics, a traditional crown lengthening procedure stands out because it delivers permanent results. Rather than just trimming the surface edge of the gum, our specialists expertly perform the reshaping or recontouring of both the soft tissue and, when necessary, a small amount of supporting bone.

This advanced method ensures that the tissue will not simply grow back over time, creating a stable, healthy foundation that protects your oral health while delivering immediate cosmetic rewards.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for the Procedure?

Anyone unhappy with the appearance of their teeth and gums, or those who need to prepare their mouth for restorations like dental crowns, bridges, or veneers, may find this surgery a suitable option. Typically your dentist will refer you to a periodontist if crown lengthening is necessary before restorative work.

During your initial consultation, our dedicated team in Rochester, NY will conduct a thorough examination and digital x-ray review to evaluate the health of the gum tissue and underlying bone support. This ensures that the procedure is perfectly tailored to your unique anatomical needs, regardless of age.

What Can I Expect During Treatment and Recovery?

At ROC Perio & Implants, we prioritize your comfort at every stage of your dental care.

• The Appointment: The treatment is performed under local anesthetic right here in our office, making the procedure entirely painless. Our expert periodontists utilize advanced technologies to carefully shape the gums and adjust bone levels, providing a symmetrical and natural look.
• The Recovery: Post-operative discomfort is typically minimal and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients are back to their normal daily activities within a day or two following the treatment.
• The Healing Process: While your gums will heal naturally over a few weeks, the immediate structural changes are visible right away, providing a fast, minimally invasive solution with maximal results.

Why Choose ROC Perio & Implants?

Choosing the right specialist clinic is crucial when considering any advanced periodontal procedure. ROC Perio & Implants serves not just Rochester but also the surrounding communities of Upper Monroe, Ellwanger-Barry, South Wedge, Highland, and Strong.

Our board-certified periodontists bring years of specialized clinical experience to periodontics and dental implantology, ensuring you get highly personalized care in a compassionate, welcoming environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)