In our previous blog, we discussed how bonded dental caps (crowns) help the cap stay firmly on the tooth.
However, bonded crowns are not always possible.
In certain cases, only cemented crowns can be used. For these crowns to stay securely in place, a procedure called Surgical Crown Lengthening becomes necessary.
What Is Surgical Crown Lengthening?
Surgical crown lengthening is a dental procedure in which a small amount of gum tissue and underlying bone around the tooth is removed.
This permanently exposes more of the tooth structure, making it ideal for placing a long-lasting dental crown.
Why Is Surgical Crown Lengthening Needed?
This procedure is recommended when:
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The tooth is too short to hold a crown
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There is a deep cavity or fracture below the gum line
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A previous crown keeps coming off
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Cemented caps are planned instead of bonded caps
For a crown to stay secure, the gums must recede permanently in that area. Temporary gum removal is not sufficient.
Surgical Crown Lengthening vs Gingivectomy (Important Difference)
Many patients confuse these two procedures.
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Surgical Crown Lengthening
✔ Gum and bone are removed
✔ Gum recession is permanent
✔ Ideal for crown placement -
Gingivectomy
✔ Only gum tissue is removed
✔ Gums grow back over time
✔ Not suitable for crown retention
👉 For crown fitting, surgical crown lengthening is the correct procedure.
How Is the Surgical Crown Lengthening Procedure Performed?
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Local anesthesia is given to ensure comfort
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A small gum flap is gently lifted
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Underlying bone is reshaped using a slow-speed drill with water cooling
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Excess gum tissue is removed using:
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Surgical blade
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Electrocautery
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Laser (where indicated)
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Sutures (stitches) are placed
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Sutures are removed after 7 days
The procedure is safe, precise, and comfortable when done by a specialist.
Pain, Healing, and Recovery
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Mild discomfort is expected for 1–2 days
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Pain is easily managed with prescribed painkillers
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Healing is smooth and uneventful
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Final crown placement is done after proper healing
Most patients resume normal routine within a day.
Who Performs Surgical Crown Lengthening?
This procedure is a specialty treatment performed by a Periodontist — a dentist specialized in gum and bone health.
At Dant-Aarogyam Microscopic Dental Clinic, surgical crown lengthening is performed under a Dental Microscope by Dr Kanan Kothari,who is an expert Periodontist and Implant Dentist,taking care of Gums Diseases and Dental Implant.Her results are always with:
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High precision
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Minimal tissue damage
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Better long-term results
Before and After Results of Surgical Crown Lengthening
After the procedure, you can clearly see:
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Increased tooth height
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Better crown support
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Improved crown stability
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Long-lasting results
This makes it easy for the dental cap to stay firmly in place without loosening.You can check many more cases on https://www.instagram.com/dant_aarogyam?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Need a Consultation?
You can send a clear photo of your tooth on our clinic WhatsApp number +91 70412 26829 for a consultation regarding:
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Crown falling repeatedly
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Short teeth for crown
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Deep cavities near gums
Related Blog
You can read Part 1 of this blog series on https://microscopicdentist.com/why-my-tooth-cap-falls-repeatedly/ to understand when bonded crowns are an option.
