Crown Lengthening Pain Healing & Risks
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a natural tooth for aesthetic or structural reasons. A crown might be recommended if a tooth is cracked, broken, or misshapen. A crown may also be used for a bridge, root canal, or dental implant. Crowns must be able to firmly affix to the natural tooth.
Dentists perform crown lengthening by recontouring your gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of the natural tooth’s surface for a crown. It is a common procedure and usually takes less than an hour.
The Purpose of a Crown Lengthening Procedure
Crown lengthening may be necessary if there is not enough of the tooth visible to hold the crown. A tooth that is broken or affected by tooth decay might prohibit a crown from attaching. A properly fitted crown allows for better oral hygiene and comfort.
You may want a crown lengthening to correct a gummy smile, which is when your gums are out of proportion with your teeth when smiling.
The Recovery Process
The recovery time is approximately three months. You will be able to resume normal functions as your gums heal. You need to avoid strenuous activity for the first few days. A physically demanding job, heavy lifting, and heavy exertion might inhibit your healing, causing more bleeding. Basically, follow these guidelines:
- Take OTC or prescription medication- In your aftercare instructions, you will most likely be told to take ibuprofen or Tylenol.
- Use an ice pack- Use a pack on your face for the first few hours after the procedure to reduce swelling.
- Avoid hot foods for the first 24 hours- Also, do not rinse your mouth.
- Leave dressings in for 7 to 14 days- Your dentist may replace the dressing once or twice.
- Brush carefully- Gently brush only your biting surfaces where the dressing has been applied. Brush and floss normally in other areas. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Wear your stent or denture- If wearing a clear stent or upper denture was included in your instructions, do not remove it for 24 hours.
- Eat a soft food diet- Avoid the surgical area when you eat. Also, do not eat anything hard, brittle, acidic, spicy, sticky, or highly seasoned. Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol- Refrain from drinking until after your post-op appointment.
- Avoid smoking- Refrain from smoking for the first 10 days or longer.
- Avoid prodding the area- Avoid using straws and playing with the site with your tongue or finger.
Possible Risks
There is some risk of infection with crown lengthening, but no more than with any other minor surgery. You should follow all recovery care instructions to prevent infection.
You might experience some bleeding at the surgical site after the procedure, and your teeth might be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. The sensitivity will diminish with time. Your tooth could look longer than the neighboring teeth, and if any bone were removed, the tooth might feel loose. If you lose this tooth in the future, the crown lengthening could make it more difficult to place a dental implant.
Outlook After Your Procedure
Oral surgeries continue to become more efficient and effective. Crown lengthening is a common dental treatment performed for both dental and aesthetic purposes. You can expect your procedure to go smoothly and increase the health and longevity of your teeth.
Related Article: How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost?