Gum & Smile Contouring
Crown Lengthening in Fox Point, WI
Reveal more of your natural tooth structure with precise, comfortable care at Port Road Dental.
Crown lengthening gently reshapes the gum and supporting bone around a tooth so your dentist can place a strong, long-lasting crown or improve a “gummy” smile. At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, we focus on comfort, clear communication, and results that look and feel natural.
Crown Lengthening
Crown Lengthening at Port Road Dental
Crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure that removes a small amount of gum tissue and sometimes bone so more of the tooth is exposed. At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, this treatment helps us save damaged teeth, secure new crowns, and refine uneven gumlines for a healthier, more confident smile.
Why You Might Need Crown Lengthening
Your dentist may recommend crown lengthening to protect a weakened tooth or to enhance how your smile looks. By giving us better access to the tooth, we can place restorations that fit more securely and last longer.
- Save and strengthen damaged teeth Exposes enough healthy tooth for secure crowns or fillings.
- Fix a “gummy” or uneven smile Reshapes excess gum tissue so teeth look more balanced and proportional.
- Improve long-term crown success Creates a cleaner margin so your crown seals better and is easier to keep clean.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Before we begin, your dentist will review X-rays, examine your bite, and explain each step so you feel prepared. Local anesthetic is used to keep the area numb and comfortable while we gently reshape the gum and, when needed, a small amount of bone.
- Digital X-rays to carefully plan how much tissue to adjust
- Magnification and precise instruments for gentle gum reshaping
- Suturing techniques designed to support smooth healing
Most crown lengthening visits are completed in one appointment. You will receive detailed after-care instructions before you leave the office.
Healing, Results, and Next Steps
Mild soreness and swelling are common for a few days and usually managed with over-the-counter medication and a soft-food diet. As the area heals, your dentist will check your progress, remove any sutures if needed, and schedule your final crown or cosmetic reshaping visit.
- Comfort-focused recovery Clear instructions for cleaning, eating, and managing tenderness.
- Healthier, easier-to-clean gumline A smoother transition between tooth and gum can make brushing and flossing more effective.
- Personalized treatment planning We coordinate crown lengthening with your restorative or cosmetic goals so your final smile looks natural and feels comfortable.
If you have a broken tooth near the gumline or are concerned about a gummy smile, our team is here to help. Call Port Road Dental at (414) 351-6300 to schedule a personalized crown lengthening consultation and learn whether this treatment is right for you.
Crown Lengthening: Frequently Asked Questions
- What is crown lengthening?
- Crown lengthening is a procedure that removes a small amount of gum tissue and sometimes bone around a tooth so more of the tooth is visible. This extra space allows your dentist to place a secure crown or improve the appearance of a gummy or uneven smile.
- Why would my dentist recommend crown lengthening instead of another treatment?
- If a tooth is broken at the gumline or decay extends deep under the gum, there may not be enough healthy tooth to hold a crown or filling. Crown lengthening exposes more tooth structure so we can restore it safely and predictably.
- Is crown lengthening painful?
- During the procedure, the area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthetic so you should feel pressure but not pain. Mild soreness or sensitivity afterward is common, but most patients find it manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and careful home care.
- How long does it take to heal?
- Initial healing usually takes about one to two weeks, though the gum tissue continues to mature over several weeks. Your dentist will let you know when it is ideal to place your final crown or complete any additional cosmetic work.
- Will crown lengthening change how my smile looks?
- When done for restorative reasons on a single tooth, changes are often subtle and designed to blend in. When done for cosmetic reasons across several teeth, crown lengthening can reduce a gummy smile and create a more even, proportional gumline.
- Are there risks or side effects?
- As with any dental surgery, there is a small risk of temporary sensitivity, bleeding, swelling, or infection. Careful planning, gentle technique, and following your home-care instructions help keep these risks low.
- Can crown lengthening be done on multiple teeth at once?
- Yes. If you are treating a gummy smile or several teeth that need crowns, your dentist may recommend crown lengthening on multiple teeth in the same area so your bite and appearance remain balanced.
- Is crown lengthening covered by insurance?
- When crown lengthening is needed to restore a damaged tooth, insurance may cover part of the procedure. Coverage is less common when it is done for purely cosmetic reasons. Our team at Port Road Dental will review your benefits and provide an estimate before treatment begins.
- How do I know if I am a candidate?
- If you have a tooth that needs a crown or you are unhappy with a gummy or uneven smile, a consultation is the best first step. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and bone levels and explain whether crown lengthening is the safest and most effective option.
- How can I get started?
- Schedule a visit with Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin. We will answer your questions, review your goals, and design a personalized treatment plan so you can feel confident moving forward.
Dr. Zach Wehner
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Dr. James Markenson
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“Comfortable & Caring”
“Port Road Dental made me feel completely at ease from the moment I walked in. Everyone was friendly, gentle, and took the time to explain each step. I’ve never felt more comfortable at a dental office.”
“Exceptional Every Visit”
“Every appointment at Port Road Dental is smooth, professional, and stress-free. The team is patient, attentive, and truly focused on my comfort. I always leave feeling confident about my care.”
