Aesthetic crown lengthening: classification, biologic rationale, and treatment planning considerations

The rationale for crown lengthening procedures has progressively become more aesthetic-driven due to the increasing popularity of smile enhancement therapy. Although the biologic requirements are similar to the functionally oriented exposure of sound tooth structure, aesthetic expectations require an increased emphasis on the appropriate diagnosis of the hard and soft tissue relationships, as well as the definitive restorative parameters to be achieved. The development of a clinically relevant aesthetic blueprint and attendant surgical guide is of paramount importance for the achievement of successful outcomes.

This article provides a classification system that clinicians can use when treatment planning for aesthetic crown lengthening. Upon reading this article, the reader should have: A clear understanding of the involved biological structures. Didactic instruction on the classification and treatment planning for aesthetic crown lengthening procedures.