Which term describes the excess gum tissue that may develop around a crown preparation?

The term that accurately describes the excess gum tissue that may develop around a crown preparation is gingival hyperplasia. This condition occurs when there is an increase in the number of cells in the gingival tissue, leading to an overgrowth or thickening of the gums. It can result from various factors, including irritation from dental materials, hormonal changes, or certain medications.

While gingival overgrowth may seem like a fitting description, it is often used as a broader term that encompasses various forms of gum overgrowth, but it is not the specific term used in clinical contexts. Gingival recession refers to the loss of gum tissue along the gumline, which contradicts the scenario of excess tissue. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums typically caused by plaque buildup and does not specifically refer to excessive gum tissue but rather to its health and condition.

Thus, the correct choice in this context would be gingival hyperplasia, as it specifically describes an abnormal increase in gum tissue that can occur around dental work like a crown preparation.