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Crown Lengthening In Ottawa
Is Your Smile Being Hidden by Your Gums?
Too much gum tissue can make teeth look short, uneven, or out of proportion, even when the teeth themselves are perfectly healthy. Crown lengthening is a common, straightforward procedure that reshapes the gumline to expose more of your natural tooth. Whether you’re looking to improve the appearance of a gummy smile or preparing a tooth for a crown or restoration, Inova Dental offers crown lengthening at both of our Ottawa locations.
What Is Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that removes excess gum tissue and, where necessary, a small amount of underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure above the gumline. Despite the name, the tooth itself is not made longer. Instead, more of the existing tooth is uncovered by carefully recontouring the surrounding tissue.
The procedure can be performed on a single tooth, multiple teeth, or across the entire gumline depending on your situation and goals.
Why Would You Need Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening is used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes:
- Gummy smile: Excess gum tissue makes teeth appear short or disproportionate. Crown lengthening removes the overgrowth to reveal a broader, more balanced smile.
- Uneven gumline: An asymmetrical gumline can be reshaped to create a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Restorative preparation: When a tooth is broken, decayed, or fractured near or below the gumline, there may not be enough tooth structure visible to support a crown or filling. Crown lengthening exposes enough of the tooth to allow a restoration to be placed properly and securely.
- Saving a tooth: In some cases, crown lengthening can help save a tooth near the gumline that might otherwise need to be extracted.
- Improved hygiene: Gums that extend too far over a tooth can be harder to clean and more prone to harbouring bacteria. Exposing more of the tooth surface makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reduces the risk of gum disease.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
- Creates a more proportionate, natural-looking smile
- Corrects a gummy or asymmetrical gumline
- Prepares teeth for crowns, fillings, and other restorations
- Helps save teeth that are broken near the gumline
- Reduces bacteria buildup and lowers the risk of gum disease
- Long-lasting results with proper oral care
The Crown Lengthening Process at Inova Dental
Consultation and Assessment
We begin with a thorough examination of your gums, teeth, and bone structure. X-rays help us determine how much tissue needs to be removed and whether bone recontouring is required. We’ll explain exactly what the procedure involves and what you can expect from your results.
The Procedure
Crown lengthening is performed under local anesthetic so you remain comfortable throughout. A small incision is made and the excess gum tissue is carefully removed. If needed, a small amount of underlying bone is also reshaped to ensure the gumline heals in a stable position. The surgical site is then rinsed, cleansed, and sutured shut. The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth involved.
Suture Removal
Two weeks after your procedure, we’ll remove the sutures and check that everything is healing properly. Most patients experience only mild swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure, which settles quickly with proper aftercare.
Full Healing and Next Steps
Full healing typically takes around three months. If crown lengthening was performed to prepare a tooth for a restoration, your permanent crown or filling will not be placed until the gums have fully healed to ensure the best possible fit and long-term stability.
Caring for Your Gums After Crown Lengthening
Recovery is straightforward for most patients. To support healing and get the best results:
- Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your dentist
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods during the initial healing period
- Maintain regular brushing and flossing, being gentle around the treated area
- Attend your follow-up appointment two weeks after the procedure for suture removal
- Avoid smoking, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of complications
How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost in Ottawa?
Crown lengthening in Ottawa typically ranges from $150 to $350 per tooth for soft tissue removal. Cases involving multiple teeth or bone recontouring may cost more. The total cost depends on the number of teeth being treated and the complexity of your specific case.
Crown lengthening performed for restorative purposes is often partially covered by dental insurance, as it is considered a functional procedure. Cosmetic crown lengthening for a gummy smile may not be covered. It is not covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). We walk you through pricing transparently during your consultation, with no surprises and no hidden fees. We also offer direct billing to most major insurance providers and can help you explore financing options if needed.
Why Choose Inova Dental for Crown Lengthening in Ottawa?
- Honest Consultations: We’ll tell you exactly what the procedure involves, what results to expect, and whether crown lengthening is the right option for your situation.
- Gentle Care: Local anesthetic is used throughout, and our team takes every step to keep you comfortable from start to finish.
- Multilingual Team: Our staff speaks English, French, and Arabic, so nothing gets lost in translation.
- Two Convenient Ottawa Locations: Visit us on Innes Road or Bank Street, with flexible hours Monday through Saturday.
Crown Lengthening FAQs
Does crown lengthening hurt?
The procedure is performed under local anesthetic, so you should feel little to no pain during the appointment. Some mild swelling and discomfort is normal in the days following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relief and following your aftercare instructions will keep you comfortable during recovery.
How long does crown lengthening take?
The length of the procedure depends on how many teeth are involved. A single tooth typically takes under an hour. Cases involving multiple teeth or bone recontouring may take longer.
How long is the recovery?
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. Sutures are removed at a follow-up appointment two weeks after the procedure. Full healing of the gums and bone takes approximately three months.
When can a crown be placed after crown lengthening?
If crown lengthening was performed to prepare a tooth for a restoration, your permanent crown will not be placed for at least three months following the procedure. This waiting period allows the gums to fully heal and settle into their new position, ensuring the best possible fit for the restoration.
Is crown lengthening covered by insurance?
Crown lengthening performed for restorative reasons is often partially covered by dental insurance. Cosmetic crown lengthening for a gummy smile may not be covered depending on your plan. Crown lengthening is not covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). Our team can help you review your benefits and will direct bill your provider on your behalf.
Can crown lengthening fix a gummy smile?
Yes. Crown lengthening is one of the most effective and long-lasting treatments for a gummy smile. By carefully removing excess gum tissue and recontouring the gumline, we can expose more of your natural teeth and create a broader, more proportionate smile.
Is the result permanent?
Yes. Once the gum tissue and bone have been reshaped and fully healed, the results are permanent. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups will help maintain your results long term.
Ready to Show More of Your Smile?
Whether you’re preparing for a restoration or looking to improve the appearance of a gummy smile, our team at Inova Dental is here to help. We’re welcoming new patients at both of our Ottawa locations.