Crown Lengthening for Esthetics and Retention: An Overview & Case Series

Abstract

Aesthetics remains an inseparable part of todays periodontal practice because of patients greater health expectations and increasing cosmetic awareness. One such important aspect of periodontal treatment is crown lengthening procedure for esthetics and function. Surgical crown lengthening is necessary in few cases that may present with sub gingival or sub-crestal extension of tooth fractures carious lesions or previously placed restoration margins. Inappropriate decision making may result in the violation of biologic width and subsequent gingival inflammation and bone loss. So as to avoid such unfavorable consequences crown lengthening procedure is considered to preserve the biologic width by providing a space of 3mm between the gingival margin and alveolar bone crest. This procedure not only enhances the esthetics but also enhance the retention of the prosthesis. In addition crown lengthening is also performed for the correction of the excessive gingival display. As we know that pleasant smile enhances the beauty of a person thus increases patients self-confidence and the quality of life. Here are few case reports of functional and esthetic crown lengthening techniques considering various factors that are to be addressed prior to the procedures.