Intentional Gingival Retraction With Provisional Direct Restoration: A Novel Approach to Facial Crown Lengthening

Achieving a harmonious marginal gingiva is an important factor in esthetic dentistry. However, surgical crown lengthening of single teeth risks asymmetry of the gingival outline in the esthetic zone. In restorative dentistry, excessive gingival retraction or deep subgingival preparation can cause facial gingival recession. This case report describes a novel approach for facial crown lengthening of single teeth using intentional gingival retraction and provisional direct restoration.

After administration of anesthesia, facial bone sounding was performed. Gingival retraction cords were pressed into the connective tissue attachment from the mesial to the distal line angle. A provisional direct restoration was then performed. These procedures were repeated until an ideal gingival outline was achieved.

Intentional gingival retraction with provisional direct restoration appears to be useful for facial crown lengthening of single teeth in periodontal biotypes with thin bone.