How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take?

To understand how long your entire crown lengthening procedure might be, it is best to understand first what crown lengthening is. This procedure, which is a common and minor periodontal surgery, consists of surgically removing part of the soft gum tissue to expose more of the tooth structure itself. Sometimes it might be necessary to remove some bone as well.

First, you are numbed with a high-quality local anesthetic. After the specific gum tissue and bone are removed, the area is then rinsed with a solution, usually sterile salt water. Stitches are sometimes used to help the gum retain its new shape, and the entire affected area is often covered with a dressing.

What is the Reason for a Crown Lengthening Procedure?

Crown lengthening is usually recommended in the following circumstances:

  1. Placement of a new crown- If you need a crown, but there is not enough tooth, from an injury or decay, to adhere to, crown lengthening will allow for the crown to adhere to the natural tooth. If there is not enough tooth available and a crown lengthening cannot be performed, the tooth is at risk for fracture and additional future problems.
  2. For aesthetic reasons- If you have short teeth or a gummy smile, simply removing a small amount of gum will dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth and your smile.

How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take?

Crown lengthening is not really a quick, walk-in, walk-out procedure. To grasp how long the process lasts, walk through these steps:

  1. Your dentist reviews x-rays and places a temporary crown if necessary, and then the surgery is scheduled. A periodontist usually performs crown lengthening.
  2. The actual duration of the surgery will vary depending on the number of teeth involved. For example, crown lengthening on all your front teeth to correct a gummy smile will take longer than a crown lengthening on just one tooth in need of a crown.
  3. During the first several days, you can expect some pain and swelling. Ice packs and pain relievers will be a welcome relief. Soft foods will be recommended, and you should not brush your gums. Keeping the area clean and free from any food particles will aid in your recovery. A water flosser might be beneficial during your healing process.
  4. About 7- 10 days after your surgery, any stitches will be removed.
  5. Around a month, or even a month and a half later, a follow-up visit will be scheduled to ensure everything is healing properly.
  6. The gums will need about three months to heal. Once the gums are healed, the tooth can be prepped for the permanent crown.

The process takes a few months from start to finish. If at any point you have questions about how the gums are progressing, do not hesitate to contact your dentist or periodontist. Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like a fever or lingering pain, and continue to practice good oral hygiene.

Modern dentistry has evolved dramatically, and your dentist or periodontist can successfully treat a variety of dental conditions. If your dentist suggests crown lengthening, you might have several questions about the procedure, especially how long the process could take.

Related Article: Crown Lengthening Pain Healing & Risks