Crown lengthening, reshaping the gum line
Crown lengthening reshapes gum (and sometimes a little bone) to expose more of a tooth. It may be needed before a crown, or done for a “gummy” smile.
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What is crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is a small gum procedure that shows more of a tooth. Some gum, and sometimes a little bone, is reshaped. It may be done so a crown can be fitted to a broken tooth, or to even out a “gummy” smile.
Crown lengthening in pictures
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Crown lengthening. How the gum line is reshaped to show more of the tooth.
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Step by step Crown lengthening: how it works
Step 1 Too little tooth shows above the gum to hold a crown, or the gum covers much of the tooth.
Show transcriptHide transcript (4 steps)
- Too little tooth shows above the gum to hold a crown, or the gum covers much of the tooth.
- The area is numbed, then gum and sometimes a little bone are reshaped.
- The gum heals at its new level over several weeks.
- A crown can then be fitted to the exposed tooth.
Treatment facts
Plain-language answers to common questions. General information only: your dentist will explain your own options, risks and costs after examining you.
Is it right for me?
It may suit you if
- a tooth has broken near or below the gum and needs a crown
- decay is close to the gum line
- your gums cover a lot of your teeth when you smile
- your gums are healthy
Worth knowing first
- It is surgery, so healing takes time.
- Gums settle over weeks to months before final crowns.
- Tell us about your medicines and any health conditions.
What happens
Check and plan
We examine the tooth and gums, and take X-rays.
Numbing
Local anaesthetic numbs the area.
Reshaping
Gum, and sometimes a little bone, is reshaped. A laser may be used for some cases.
often about 1 hourStitches
Stitches may be placed.
Review
A check after about 1 to 2 weeks.
Final crown
Placed once the gums have settled.
often weeks to months
Times are typical ranges only. Your dentist will give you your own plan.
Recovery and aftercare
The first few days
- Some tenderness, swelling or bleeding for a few days.
- Eat soft food and keep the area clean as advised.
- Take pain relief as advised.
Looking after it long term
- Clean gently but thoroughly around the area.
- Keep up regular check-ups.
When to call us: ring (08) 9330 7115 if you have heavy bleeding, pain or swelling that is getting worse, or a fever. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, call 000.
Risks to know about
Every treatment has some risks. Your dentist will talk you through the ones that apply to you.
- Bleeding, swelling or infection after surgery.
- Sensitivity as more tooth root is exposed.
- Small dark gaps between teeth (“black triangles”).
- The tooth may look longer than nearby teeth.
Ways risk is lowered: careful planning, a gentle technique and following the aftercare advice.
Other options
Removing the tooth
If too little tooth is left to save.
Orthodontic extrusion
Slowly bringing the tooth up with braces, in some cases.
Cost and paying
What affects the cost
- how many teeth
- gum only or gum and bone
- laser or conventional
- the crown afterwards
We can’t give an exact price before we examine you. You’ll get a written, itemised plan and estimate before any treatment starts. Health fund rebates depend on your fund and level of cover.
Paying for crown lengthening
- Estimate first. For planned treatment you get a written estimate with item numbers before you start.
- Claim on the day. Bring your health fund card. We claim on the spot with Tyro, so you pay only the gap.
- Check your cover. Use the health fund checker to see which item numbers to ask your fund about.
- Ways to pay. EFTPOS and card, including tap and pay. Payment plans are available through Tyro and are tailored to each patient. Ask us about eligibility, terms and any fees before you start. Fees and payments
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Suitability, treatment time and results vary from person to person.
Sources (checked 21 October 2026)
Common questions
Can it be done with a laser?
In some cases our Fotona LightWalker laser can be used instead of a scalpel for the gum work. Your dentist will advise whether it suits you.
How long is recovery?
The gum usually takes several weeks to a few months to settle fully. Your dentist will tell you when a crown can be fitted.
Will it hurt?
The area is numbed with local anaesthetic. Some tenderness afterwards is common and can usually be managed with pain relief your dentist recommends.
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Information adapted from our main website, myareedental.com. General information only; it isn’t a substitute for advice from your dentist. Fees are confirmed in a written treatment plan after your examination.
Your next step
Request an appointment online, call or text our team.