Treatments
Reveal More of Your Natural Smile, Safely and Comfortably
Crown Lengthening in Edinburgh
Too Much Gum, Not Enough Tooth? We Can Fix That.
If your teeth look short, your smile feels too “gummy,” or your dentist has said there’s not enough visible tooth for a crown or veneer, crown lengthening could be the solution.
At Integrated Dentalcare, we perform precise crown lengthening to help patients improve their smile proportions, support longer-lasting dental restorations, and reduce gum-related oral health risks.
What Is Crown Lengthening and Why Might You Need It?
Crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure in which we remove excess gum tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of bone to expose more of your natural tooth.
It’s a single appointment treatment that can help with:
- Cosmetic Smile Enhancement – Reduce a gummy smile or improve symmetry
- Restorative Preparation – Provide enough exposed tooth for crowns, veneers or fillings
- Improved Oral Health – Make future restorations easier to clean and less prone to decay
Think of it as clearing space for long-term confidence, function, and beauty.
Who Is Crown Lengthening For?
- You show too much gum when you smile.
- Your teeth look shorter than you’d like.
- A tooth has broken close to the gum line.
- You’re getting a crown, bridge or veneer, but there’s not enough visible tooth for a secure fit.
- You want a more balanced, symmetrical smile.
This is often a key first step in a broader aesthetic or restorative plan.
Benefits of Crown Lengthening
- Enhances Smile Aesthetics – Reveals a more natural tooth for a less gummy, more proportionate appearance.
- Supports Restorations – Ensures better bonding and longevity for crowns, veneers, or bridges.
- Improves Cleanability – Exposing more tooth makes brushing and flossing more effective at the gum line.
- One-Time Procedure, Long-Term Gain – For most patients, the results are permanent.
What to Expect: Step-by-Step Journey
1. Consultation and Assessment
We begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, gums, and goals. You’ll learn if crown lengthening is right for you and how it fits into your treatment plan.
2. The Procedure
- Local anaesthesia ensures a pain-free experience.
- Excess gum tissue is gently removed using precision techniques.
- If needed, a small amount of bone may be reshaped to achieve the right balance.
- We sculpt the gumline for optimal healing and final appearance.
- Most procedures take less than an hour and are performed in a single appointment.
3. Recovery and Aftercare
- Mild soreness is normal but manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
- Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or acidic items for a few days.
- We’ll provide clear instructions and follow-up to support healing.
- Most people return to daily activities quickly, with full gum healing within a few days to a week.
- Maturation of the gumline may take a few months, especially if it’s part of a smile design or restorative plan.
Real Results That Last
In most cases, crown lengthening is a one-time procedure with long-lasting benefits. Whether it’s done to support a crown or to balance out a gummy smile, the result is permanent and predictable, with care.
Why Choose Integrated Dentalcare for Crown Lengthening?
Cosmetic and Restorative
Whether you’re preparing for a crown or refining your smile, we’ve got the aesthetic eye and technical skill.
Precise Gum Recontouring
We use a precise laser to remove only what’s necessary—for ideal shape, healing and symmetry.
Pain-managed Care
Local anaesthetic, calm explanations, and experienced hands. Laser heals the gum immediately, promoting speedy recovery.
Honest Guidance
We only recommend crown lengthening when it’s clinically justified or aesthetic results require it.
Private, Supportive Environment
You’ll never feel rushed, judged, or pressured. Just heard and helped.
What Patients Say
Integrated Dentalcare have straightened my teeth and fixed all wear. I have been with the practice for 10 years and they have always been exemplary in their approach and treatments. The clinic is very calm. The reception is very friendly. I highly recommend them.
Themis A.
Just finished 30 weeks of invisible aligners with Integrated Dentalcare and I can’t praise them enough for the care and attention they afforded me at all times. I was part of the process throughout the treatment which included regular check-ups and discussions to check progress. Their expertise has given me a wonderful new smile which I’m delighted with. Best dentist I’ve ever been too.
Watsfa
I went years without going to a dentist after bad previous experiences that had made me anxious to go back, but I found Integrated Dentalcare. I’ve genuinely never felt worried about going to the dentist since. They are honestly the nicest dentists you could ask for. They listened to my concerns and instead of brushing me off, they straightened my teeth and made me feel much more confident when I smile. They went above and beyond to fit appointments around my schedule and make me feel completely as ease every time.
Rachel C
Another visit to the dental practice this morning, nearing the end of my Sparks treatment and so pleased with the results. The alignment of my teeth is amazing, thank you to Alan for his infinite attention to detail and expertise as an orthodontist. All staff are so welcoming and professional throughout each contact I have had. Treatment, skills, knowledge and equipment are highly advanced in this clinic.
Non R.
When I started my journey with Integrated Dentalcare my confidence with my teeth was at an all time low. I’d had several failed treatments in the past and had a number of recurring problems – some of which were very painful. I hated the shape, colour and condition of my teeth. I chose Integrated Dentalcare based on family recommendations – and I am so so glad I did. All the staff are extremely competent, knowledgable and friendly. The receptionists, dentists and hygienists alike. I had all of my fillings replaced with lovely new white ones. I had all of my root canal treatment repaired as poor dentistry in the past (at another practice) meant that I had recurring pain. I had orthodontic treatment and I had whitening treatment too. The most important things to me was the whitening treatment which worked better than anyone expected due to the amazing products they gave me. I also am so happy with the skill and care taken place with my bridge work – making the new teeth the correct shape for my mouth and unable to tell they aren’t my real teeth! I can now smile and feel totally not self conscious. It’s made a massive difference to my entire life. They have given me the skills to continue practicing good dental hygiene meaning that I won’t have as many problems in the future. Expertise is incomparable, staff are so accommodating and they will do their upmost to allow you to achieve your dental goals! After an initial consultation with Neeraj it was clear that my negligence combined with poor prior dentistry had led me to this point. Neeraj filled me with confidence after my first appointment and for the first time in years I felt as if someone understood my problems and could actually fix them. X rays showed that my root canals had been unsuccessful and some of my fillings too. I had a very out of place incisor crown that was not consistent with the rest of my teeth causing me to cover my mouth with my hand when talking to people and laughing. I felt as if my teeth were embarrassing and I never wanted anyone to see them. I met with Nikki for an educational appointment on brushing and flossing. Within a couple of weeks I noticed a difference in the shade of my teeth and family and friends had noticed too. I then met with Adrian for three very lengthy appointments where he fixed all of my root canals and fillings. Today, Adrian replaced the crown that looked so different to my other teeth with one that could be my own tooth. I felt very emotional when I looked in the mirror and saw my smile. I still have a brace and implants on the agenda for 2016. The team are so dedicated and genuinely passionate about dentistry.
Rosie A.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crown lengthening painful?
Not during the procedure—local anaesthetic keeps things fully numb. Afterwards, some soreness is common, but it’s usually mild and well managed with standard pain relief.
How long does healing take?
Initial healing takes 5–7 days. Full gum reshaping and maturation may take a few months, depending on your body and how the tissue adapts.
Can I have it done for cosmetic reasons only?
Yes. Many people choose crown lengthening purely to reduce gum show and improve smile proportions, especially before veneers or bonding.
What if I need it on more than one tooth?
We can perform crown lengthening on a single tooth or multiple teeth in one visit, depending on your goals and clinical needs.
Will I need any time off work?
Most patients return to normal routines the next day. We recommend avoiding strenuous activity for 24 to 48 hours.
A Small Procedure That Unlocks Big Possibilities
Crown lengthening isn’t just about looks—it’s about creating the foundation for everything that follows.
Whether you want a more confident smile, need a stronger restoration, or are building toward veneers or implants, this could be the step that makes it all possible.
Alternatively, you can call us directly on 0131 225 9093.