Creating the Space Needed for Healthy Tooth Restoration
Crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that adjusts the gum and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of the natural tooth structure. Patients are often referred for crown lengthening when a tooth requires a crown or restoration but there is not enough visible tooth above the gum line. Cornick Family Periodontics has served the Somerville community since 1966, providing specialized periodontal procedures designed to support long-term dental health. Dr. Peter Cornick works closely with referring dentists to prepare teeth for restorations while maintaining healthy gum structure.
If your dentist has recommended crown lengthening, call (908) 526-0545 to schedule a consultation.
Situations Where Crown Lengthening May Be Recommended
Preparing a Tooth for a Dental Crown
If a tooth breaks near the gum line, there may not be enough structure available for a crown. Crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth so the restoration can be placed securely.
Treating Tooth Decay Below the Gum Line
When decay extends beneath the gums, a crown lengthening procedure may allow your dentist to access and restore the tooth properly.
Supporting Long-Term Dental Restorations
Restorations such as crowns or bridges require stable tooth structure. Crown lengthening can help create the space needed for proper placement.
Improving Gum Contours
In some cases, adjusting the gum line can improve the balance between teeth and gums while maintaining periodontal health.
Common Misunderstandings About Crown Lengthening
• Believing the tooth cannot be restored
When a tooth breaks or decays near the gum line, crown lengthening may make restoration possible.
• Assuming extraction is the only option
Some teeth can be preserved through periodontal procedures that expose additional tooth structure.
• Uncertainty about the procedure
Patients often feel unsure about surgical treatment. A consultation helps explain how crown lengthening supports long-term dental restoration.
• Waiting too long to address damaged teeth
Early treatment may help preserve natural teeth and avoid more complex procedures later.
How Crown Lengthening Treatment Works
Examination and Referral Coordination
A periodontal evaluation reviews the tooth structure, gum levels, and restorative plan from your dentist.
Treatment Planning
The procedure is carefully planned to expose the necessary amount of tooth structure while maintaining healthy gums.
Crown Lengthening Procedure
Gum tissue is adjusted and, when necessary, a small amount of bone is reshaped to expose more of the tooth.
Healing and Restoration
After healing, your dentist can place the final restoration, such as a crown or bridge.
Periodontal Surgical Care with a Long Community History
Cornick Family Periodontics is establishing a tradition of periodontal care that has served the community for nearly six decades. Today, Dr. Peter Cornick continues that legacy with a focus on careful diagnosis, thoughtful surgical treatment, and attentive patient care. The practice regularly collaborates with referring dentists throughout New Jersey to prepare teeth for successful restorations. That commitment to dependable periodontal treatment continues for every patient who visits the Somerville office.
Schedule a Crown Lengthening Consultation
If your dentist has recommended crown lengthening or if a tooth requires additional structure for restoration, a consultation can help determine the next step. Cornick Family Periodontics provides careful periodontal surgical care designed to support long-term oral health.
Call (908) 526-0545 or visit:
Cornick Family Periodontics
210 East Main Street, Somerville, New Jersey 08876, United States