A smile that shows too much gum tissue, or teeth that appear short and small, often has less to do with the teeth themselves and more to do with where the gumline sits. Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that gently reshapes the gumline, revealing more of the natural tooth structure beneath and creating the balanced, proportionate smile that cosmetic dentistry alone cannot always achieve. At LALUME Dental Studio in Newport Beach, crown lengthening is performed by our in-house periodontist, Dr. Bakian, who visits the practice monthly to carry out specialty procedures, including gum lifts, sinus lifts, implant placement, and extractions. Dr. Shahira Saad, a UCLA School of Dentistry graduate with deep training in cosmetic dentistry and smile design, collaborates closely with Dr. Bakian to ensure every outcome is both clinically sound and beautifully executed.
Crown lengthening is one of the most common periodontal surgical procedures performed today, with applications that are both aesthetic and functional. On the aesthetic side, it is most often used to address what is commonly called a gummy smile, in which excess gum tissue covers part of the tooth, making the visible crown appear shorter than it should be. By carefully removing and recontouring the gum tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of bone, Dr. Bakian reveals the full length of the tooth beneath. A comprehensive review published in BMC Oral Health via the National Institutes of Health confirms that crown lengthening can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes, with outcomes that depend on careful planning tailored to each patient’s anatomy and goals.
Crown lengthening is also performed for functional reasons, most often to expose sufficient tooth structure for a restoration, such as a crown or veneer, to be properly placed. When decay or a fracture extends below the gumline, there may not be enough visible tooth for a restoration to bond securely. In these cases, crown lengthening creates the space needed to complete the restoration correctly, which protects both the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue over time.
For patients whose primary concern is the appearance of their smile, aesthetic crown lengthening can produce a dramatic improvement in the balance and proportion of their teeth. The procedure is typically performed on the front upper teeth and is often combined with additional cosmetic treatments. Many patients choose to pair crown lengthening with porcelain veneers for a complete smile transformation, allowing Dr. Saad to build on the improved gumline with restorations that are perfectly shaped and sized for the new proportions.
Every crown lengthening case begins with a thorough consultation, including digital scanning and a full review of your gum and bone health. Dr. Bakian will determine exactly how much tissue needs to be repositioned and whether any bone recontouring is involved. The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for patients who would like additional comfort. Most patients find the process virtually painless and are back to their normal routines within a few days.
Following the procedure, a short healing period is typically required before any final restorations are placed. Dr. Saad remains involved throughout, so the transition from periodontal care to cosmetic or restorative work is seamless and well-timed. Financing through Cherry Financing and CareCredit is available, and our team will review your PPO insurance coverage with you during your consultation.
We’re here to answer your questions about crown lengthening.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort during treatment is minimal. Some tenderness and mild swelling in the days following is normal and typically resolves quickly. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions and is always available if questions come up during recovery.
Most patients feel comfortable within a few days, though full tissue maturation takes several weeks. If you are having crown lengthening in preparation for a restoration, Dr. Saad and Dr. Bakian will coordinate timing to ensure the tissue is fully healed before the final work begins.
Yes. When performed by a trained periodontist like Dr. Bakian, crown lengthening produces a natural-looking gumline that beautifully frames the teeth. The goal is always a result that looks as though it was always there.
Absolutely, and the combination is very common for patients seeking a full smile transformation. Crown lengthening creates the proper gumline proportions, and veneers then refine the shape, size, and color of the teeth. Dr. Saad and Dr. Bakian work together to plan both procedures as a cohesive treatment.
Coverage depends on whether the procedure is being performed for functional or cosmetic reasons. Functional crown lengthening performed in preparation for a restoration may be partially covered by PPO plans. Aesthetic crown lengthening is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. Our team will help you understand your benefits and explore financing options during your consultation.
Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Saad.
LALUME Dental Studio offers the rare advantage of having both a skilled periodontist and a gifted restorative and cosmetic dentist working together in one Newport Beach practice. Dr. Bakian brings the surgical precision that crown lengthening demands, and Dr. Saad brings the aesthetic vision, trained through her AEGD residency at UCLA and her advanced work in facially driven smile design, to ensure the final result is everything you hoped for.
If you have been told your teeth look short, your smile shows too much gum, or you need crown lengthening before a restoration, we would love to help you find a clear path forward. Contact our office to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a smile that is as balanced as it is beautiful.
Receive high-quality, personalized treatment recommendations from Dr. Saad and get answers to all your smile questions from the comfort of your own home.
Ample secure and safe paid parking located on-site.
Join Our VIP List
"*" indicates required fields
