Crown lengthening is a precise dental surgical procedure that reshapes or removes gum tissue (and sometimes a small portion of bone) to expose more of the natural tooth structure.

There are two main types:

• Cosmetic crown lengthening – ideal for patients with a “gummy smile”, where excess gum tissue covers too much of the teeth. By reshaping the gumline, your smile looks more balanced, proportionate, and aesthetically pleasing.

• Functional crown lengthening – necessary when a tooth has broken below the gum line or when there isn’t enough tooth structure available for a dental crown, bridge, or restoration.

Unlike a gingivectomy (which removes only soft tissue), crown lengthening may involve adjusting both gum and bone tissue for stability and long-term success.

Patients in Vaughan choose crown lengthening for both cosmetic transformations and functional dental health improvements.

 Cosmetic Benefits

• Reduces the appearance of a gummy smile

• Creates a balanced gum-to-tooth ratio

• Enhances confidence in social and professional settings

• Complements smile makeovers with veneers, crowns, or whitening

 Functional Benefits

• Provides sufficient tooth structure for secure dental crowns or bridges

• Restores teeth that have fractured near the gum line

• Improves gum health by reducing deep periodontal pockets

 Long-Term Oral Health Impact

• Helps prevent gum disease recurrence

• Reduces risk of crown failure due to insufficient support

• Promotes easier oral hygiene maintenance

Many of our patients report feeling more comfortable smiling, speaking, and eating after treatment — a true before-and-after life transformation.

At Dentin Family Dentistry, we use advanced technology and a patient-first approach to make crown lengthening precise, comfortable, and effective.

1. Initial Assessment – A comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and 3D imaging help us determine the gum and bone structure.

2. Local Anesthesia & Sedation Options – Your comfort comes first. We provide gentle local anesthesia, with sedation available for anxious patients.

3. Gum Reshaping – Using specialized instruments, we carefully remove or contour gum tissue, and when necessary, adjust supporting bone.

4. Exposure of Tooth Structure – The targeted tooth is revealed enough for restoration or cosmetic balance.

5. Suturing & Healing Support – The gum tissue is sutured into its new position, promoting healthy healing.

⏱️ Procedure Time: Typically 45–90 minutes, depending on complexity.
📅 Number of Visits: Often completed in a single visit, with follow-up appointments for monitoring.

Patients frequently describe the procedure as far less intimidating than they expected, especially with modern tools and minimally invasive techniques we use at our Vaughan practice.

Not every patient requires crown lengthening, but many benefit greatly when recommended.

 Ideal Candidates

• Patients with short-looking teeth or a gummy smile

• Individuals needing a crown or bridge but lacking visible tooth structure

• Those with broken teeth below the gum line

• Patients undergoing cosmetic smile makeovers

 Contraindications

• Uncontrolled periodontal disease

• Severe bone loss

• Poor oral hygiene or untreated oral infections

Consultation Process

During your consultation at Dentin Family Dentistry:

• We evaluate your smile with digital imaging

• Discuss your goals (cosmetic vs. functional)

• Review alternatives such as veneers, gum grafting, or orthodontics

• Create a personalized treatment plan with clear expectations

Healing after crown lengthening is straightforward when patients follow proper care.

 Timeline Expectations

• First 24–48 hours – Mild swelling and tenderness

• 1 week – Stitches may be removed or dissolve naturally

• 2–4 weeks – Gum tissue stabilizes

• 2–3 months – Full healing before final restorative work

 Post-Operative Instructions

• Use prescribed pain relievers and mouth rinses

• Avoid hard or spicy foods for the first few days

• Practice gentle brushing and flossing

• Refrain from strenuous exercise immediately after surgery

Follow-Up Care

Regular checkups ensure gums are healing properly. In rare cases of complications (such as infection or delayed healing), our Vaughan team is always available for immediate support.

Patients often ask: “How much does crown lengthening cost in Vaughan?”

• Average Cost: Ranges from $350 to $1,000 per tooth, depending on complexity.

• Insurance: Functional crown lengthening (required for restorative work) is often covered, while cosmetic procedures may not be.

• Payment Options: At Dentin Family Dentistry, we offer flexible payment plans to make care accessible.

Compared to alternative cosmetic procedures, crown lengthening offers a long-lasting, natural-looking solution — often at a lower cost than veneers or complex orthodontics.

Choosing the right dentist makes all the difference.

• Expertise – Our dentists have years of clinical experience in cosmetic and functional periodontal surgery.

• Advanced Technology – Digital imaging, laser dentistry, and minimally invasive tools.

• Patient-Centered Care – Comfort-focused sedation and personalized treatment planning.

• Local Convenience – Easily accessible from York University, Concord, and Thornhill, with free parking at our Vaughan location.

Ready to improve your smile and oral health? Crown lengthening at Dentin Family Dentistry can make all the difference.

📍 Visit us at: 3300 Steeles Ave W unit #6, Vaughan, ON L4K 2Y4
📞 Call: (437) 900-2200