What to Expect After a Crown Lengthening Procedure

There are a few different reasons why someone may undergo a crown lengthening procedure – some for aesthetic reasons others for functional purposes and dental restoration. But despite why they are choosing to move forward with the procedure, most patients have a lot of questions about what to expect after the procedure. Here’s everything you need to know. 

What is Crown Lengthening? 

The part of the tooth that is above the gumline is known as the crown. When there isn’t enough showing, crown lengthening is done to expose more. This common dental surgery uses a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. Once the area is numb, a small incision is made into the gum line to expose the crown. This area is cleaned up, stitched, and left to heal. 

This may involve just one tooth or many teeth. After all, there are many different reasons that patients choose to move forward with crown lengthening procedures, including those who: 

• Have teeth that are too short or worn, showing too much gum
• Are battling tooth decay that is severely below the gum line
• Need to prepare a tooth for a dental crown or veneer

Regardless of why you decided to move forward with crown lengthening surgery, there is a good chance you are wondering how the recovery will be. 

What to Expect After Crown Lengthening

In all, crown lengthening is a pretty minor surgery with little pain to be expected. But there are a few things that you should expect. 

Managing Pain. Generally, over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen will be all you need for relief. If necessary, your dentist may prescribe you something stronger. 

Recovery Time. One of the most popular questions patients ask about their crown lengthening procedure is how long is the recovery time? Unfortunately, there is no set answer to this question since it depends on the patient. Any soreness you have should begin to dissipate after a few days, with most feeling back to normal within a week or so. Though it is important to keep in mind that total healing from the procedure may take 2 to 3 months. 

What to Eat (And What Not to Eat). Right after your crown lengthening procedure, you will be numb and it is not recommended you eat during this time to avoid injuring yourself. When it wears off, stick to eating mostly soft foods and stay away from hard and crunchy foods. Also know that salty and spicy foods can cause irritation to your gums.  

Swelling and Bleeding. It is not uncommon for there to be swelling and bleeding at the surgical sight for about 24 to 48 hours following. Place an ice pack on the area to reduce the swelling and applying pressure with moistened gauze should help with bleeding. 

Strenuous activity ought to be avoided for the first couple of days. 

Once you know what to expect with crown lengthening, practicing good oral hygiene and a few of these tips will help your healing to progress beautifully. 

If you are looking for a dental team that is highly skilled in Crown Lengthening Procedures, as well as any periodontal treatment, Hudson Valley Periodontics & Implantology has decades of experience. It’s time to take back control of your oral health.