Crown Lengthening Pain, Healing & Risks
Crown lengthening is a common procedure used to expose more of a tooth by adjusting the gumline. Dentists often recommend it when there isn’t enough visible tooth structure to support a crown, especially after a tooth has broken or decayed near the gumline. Whether the procedure is for functional or cosmetic reasons, it’s normal to have questions about how painful it might be, what healing involves, and what risks to consider. Read on to learn more about what you should know before moving forward.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Crown lengthening is usually performed in your dentist’s office using local anesthesia. If needed, your dentist may also recommend a sedative to help you stay relaxed. During the procedure, the dentist makes small incisions in the gum around the tooth. The gums are carefully pulled back to expose more of the tooth. In some cases that are more complex, a small amount of bone is reshaped or removed as well. Once the desired amount of tooth is visible, the area is cleaned, and the gums are stitched back into place.
The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes per tooth, depending on how many teeth are involved and whether any bone reshaping is needed. It’s done on an outpatient basis, so you’ll be able to return home the same day.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Thanks to the anesthesia, you won’t feel pain during the procedure itself. After the numbness wears off, some soreness and sensitivity are normal. Most patients describe the discomfort as mild to moderate and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication if needed. The most noticeable discomfort usually fades after the first few days.
How Long Is the Healing Process?
Initial recovery from crown lengthening usually takes about one to two weeks. Most people return to work and normal routines within a few days. Full healing of the gums can take up to three months. Here’s what to expect during recovery:
- In the first 24 hours, avoid rinsing your mouth or eating hot foods, as this can disturb the area and slow healing.
- Your dentist may place a surgical dressing over the site. This should stay in place for about 7 to 14 days, depending on your dentist’s instructions.
- Stick to a soft food diet in the first few days to avoid irritating the gums.
- Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or touching the surgical area, as these can lead to complications or delay healing.
- Follow-up visits are usually scheduled a few weeks after the procedure to check on healing progress and determine when you’ll be ready for the next step, such as placing a permanent crown.
What are the Risks?
Crown lengthening is considered a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks. These can include:
- Mild bleeding or swelling
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Infection at the surgical site
- Minor changes in how your smile looks, depending on how much gum tissue is removed
Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions will help reduce the risk of complications and support a smooth recovery.
What Should I Do Next?
If you’ve been told you may need crown lengthening, speak with your dentist about what to expect in your specific case. With the right preparation and care, you can feel confident moving forward and on track for a healthy, long-lasting result.