Laser Crown Lengthening in Bozeman, MT

Precisely reshape gum tissue to expose more of your tooth structure for restorative or cosmetic treatment.

More Tooth Structure, More Treatment Options

Sometimes a tooth doesn't have enough visible structure above the gumline to properly support a crown, filling, or other restoration, or a smile simply shows more gum tissue than tooth, creating what's often called a "gummy smile." In both cases, adjusting the gum line can open up treatment options that wouldn't otherwise be possible.

At Shine Dental, laser crown lengthening allows us to precisely reshape gum tissue, exposing more of the tooth structure beneath. Whether the goal is restorative or purely cosmetic, this treatment is performed with far greater precision and less trauma than traditional scalpel-based methods.

What Is Laser Crown Lengthening?

Laser crown lengthening is a procedure that uses focused laser energy to remove or reshape gum tissue, and sometimes a small amount of underlying bone, in order to expose more of the tooth's structure. This is often necessary before placing a crown or filling on a tooth that's broken below the gumline, or to correct a smile where excess gum tissue is visible.

Because laser technology allows for such precise tissue removal, this procedure typically results in less bleeding, less trauma to surrounding structures, and a smoother recovery compared to traditional methods.

The Benefits of Laser Crown Lengthening

Improved Restoration Support: This treatment exposes enough healthy tooth structure to support a crown or filling properly.
Enhanced Smile Aesthetics: Laser crown lengthening can reduce excess gum tissue, addressing a "gummy smile" for cosmetic patients.
Minimal Bleeding: This treatment typically results in significantly less bleeding compared to traditional scalpel-based procedures.
Greater Precision: Laser technology allows for highly targeted tissue removal, preserving more of the surrounding healthy structure.
Faster Healing: Because this procedure is less traumatic to tissue, many patients experience quicker recovery than with traditional methods.

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Is Laser Crown Lengthening Right for Me?

Laser crown lengthening may be recommended if you need a crown or filling placed on a tooth with insufficient structure above the gumline, or if you're interested in reducing the appearance of excess gum tissue for cosmetic reasons. This treatment is well-suited for both restorative and purely aesthetic goals.

During your evaluation, our team will assess your specific situation to determine whether crown lengthening is the right step before proceeding with restorative or cosmetic treatment.

The Laser Crown Lengthening Process What to Expect

Evaluation

We'll assess your tooth structure and gum tissue to determine whether crown lengthening is necessary for your treatment goals.

Comfortable Preparation

A local anesthetic is typically used to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

Laser Treatment

Using a precise handheld device, your provider reshapes the gum tissue, and if needed, a small amount of bone, to expose more of the tooth.

Healing and Restoration

Once the treatment area has healed sufficiently, your provider can proceed with the planned crown, filling, or cosmetic treatment.

Your Laser Crown Lengthening Results and Recovery

Because laser crown lengthening is less traumatic to tissue than traditional methods, most patients experience a smoother recovery, with minimal bleeding and swelling.

Many patients notice significant healing within the first week or two, though the treatment area may need additional time to fully settle before a permanent restoration is placed.

Your provider will let you know when your gum tissue has healed enough to move forward with your restorative or cosmetic treatment, ensuring the final results look and function exactly as planned.

Why Choose Shine Dental?

Our approach to laser crown lengthening reflects a rare depth of training and genuine investment in advanced technology.

Advanced Laser Training: Dr. Justesen is currently pursuing a Master's in Laser Dentistry through the Laser and Health Academy, with an estimated completion date of December 2026, a level of specialized training not currently pursued by any other dentist in Montana.
Ethical, Conservative Treatment Philosophy: We recommend crown lengthening only when it's genuinely necessary to support your restorative or cosmetic treatment goals.
Same-Day Digital Dentistry: Our laser and digital technology often work together, allowing for efficient planning and treatment across restorative and cosmetic procedures.
Anxiety-Conscious Care: By minimizing bleeding and discomfort, laser crown lengthening naturally supports a calmer, more comfortable experience for anxious patients.

Client Testimonials

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Laser Crown Lengthening Frequently Asked Questions

What is laser crown lengthening used for?

Laser crown lengthening is used to expose more tooth structure for restorative treatment, such as a crown or filling, or to reduce excess gum tissue for cosmetic reasons.

Is laser crown lengthening painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort. A local anesthetic is typically used to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

How long does recovery take after laser crown lengthening?

Many patients notice significant healing within one to two weeks, though the treatment area may need additional time to fully settle before a permanent restoration is placed.

Can laser crown lengthening address a gummy smile?

Yes. This procedure can reduce excess gum tissue, helping create a more balanced ratio between the gums and teeth for a more proportionate smile.

Will I need a restoration placed right after crown lengthening?

Not always immediately. Your provider will typically allow the gum tissue to heal before placing a permanent crown or filling.

Does laser crown lengthening involve removing bone?

In some cases, a small amount of bone may need to be reshaped in addition to gum tissue, depending on your specific situation.

Is laser crown lengthening better than traditional methods?

Laser treatment typically results in less bleeding, less trauma to surrounding tissue, and a smoother recovery compared to traditional scalpel-based methods.

Who provides laser crown lengthening at Shine Dental?

Laser crown lengthening is provided by Dr. Justesen, who is currently pursuing a Master's in Laser Dentistry through the Laser and Health Academy.