CLERMONT, FL – Not every smile makeover starts with veneers or crowns—in some cases, the fundamental transformation begins beneath the gums.
At Clermont Periodontics and Implant Center, we recently treated a patient who presented with passive altered eruption and an existing dental crown. This condition occurs when a tooth erupts fully, but the gum tissue doesn’t naturally recede to expose the full enamel surface. The result? A smile that may appear “gummy,” uneven, or short—despite healthy teeth underneath.
To restore ideal proportions and prepare for future cosmetic dental work, we performed a specialized surgical procedure called esthetic crown lengthening and a frenectomy to improve gum mobility and balance.
What Is Esthetic Crown Lengthening?
Esthetic crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that involves:
- Reshaping the gum line
- Removing small amounts of bone around the tooth
- Repositioning the gum tissue to expose more of the natural tooth surface
This is not just a cosmetic enhancement—it creates a biologically healthy environment that ensures the long-term success of veneers, crowns, and other aesthetic restorations.
Why a Frenectomy May Be Needed
Sometimes, a frenum (the small fold of tissue between the upper lip and gums) can pull on the gum line and interfere with proper tissue healing or symmetry. A frenectomy—removing or repositioning this tissue—can improve outcomes by allowing the gum tissue to settle in its new, ideal position.
Who Is a Candidate for This Procedure?
You may be eligible for esthetic crown lengthening if you:
- ✔️ Have a “gummy” smile despite fully erupted teeth
- ✔️ Are planning to get veneers or cosmetic crowns
- ✔️ Have an uneven gum line or asymmetry
- ✔️ Have existing crowns that appear too short or bulky
- ✔️ Are in overall good oral and systemic health
A full evaluation with a periodontist is needed to assess bone levels, gum health, and aesthetic goals before treatment begins.
A Team Approach to Smile Design
These results don’t happen in isolation. Successful treatment requires collaboration between:
- 👨⚕️ Periodontist – Performs the crown lengthening and frenectomy procedures to create the foundation for esthetic work
- 🦷 Restorative Dentist or Prosthodontist – Places the final veneers, crowns, or other restorations
- 📸 Lab Technicians and Imaging Specialists – Support smile design with precision tools and diagnostics
- 💬 The Patient – Plays a vital role in communicating goals and maintaining oral health post-op
Together, this team ensures that what starts as a functional correction becomes a confident, natural-looking result.
Ready for Your Smile Transformation?
If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for veneers due to gum coverage—or you’re just not satisfied with how your crowns look—esthetic crown lengthening might be the missing link.
📍Schedule a consultation today at Clermont Periodontics and Implant Center to explore your options. We’ll work with your general dentist or cosmetic provider to create a treatment plan that sets you up for success—inside and out.
🦷 Healthy Gums, Confident Smiles.
Clermont Periodontics and Implant Center
📍 1381 Citrus Tower Blvd, Clermont, FL
📞 352-995-3225
🌐 clermontperioimplantcenter.com