Gingival contouring surgery for aesthetics or Esthetic crown lengthening is a surgical treatment method to ‘increase the length of the tooth’ by cutting soft and hard tissues to expose the hidden tooth root area clearly, making the teeth look longer and more beautiful. This must also consider the balance of the teeth and gums with the patient’s facial features.
Designing gum shape and tooth form for a more beautiful smile
Before improving the tooth shape to give the face owner a more beautiful smile, the dentist will design a smile (smile design) so the patient can see the expected treatment outcome beforehand to determine if it meets their needs. In addition to planning the gingival contouring surgery, the doctor can also plan the tooth restoration in advance to further enhance the tooth aesthetics afterward.
What are the steps of gingival contouring surgery?
The Esthetic crown lengthening process or gingival contouring surgery begins with diagnosing the patient’s teeth and surrounding tissues to assess how the teeth should be cut and to find the appropriate height that matches the patient’s gum structure and lips.
The tissue cutting uses medical instruments such as blades, electrosurgery, or lasers, and usually requires bone trimming around the tooth root as well to create new tissue attachment above the bone crest and reduce the prominence of the bone ridge.
Recovery after gingival contouring surgery
After the gingival contouring surgery is completed, it takes about 4-6 weeks for the wound to heal completely. During this period, the gums need to recover before proceeding with further tooth restoration.
Dr. Kritawat Lertsukprasert
Periodontics Specialist Dentist
Dental Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
