Frequently Asked Questions
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure that involves removing gum tissue and/or bone to expose more of the tooth's surface. This can be done for functional or cosmetic purposes, such as preparing a tooth for a dental crown or improving the appearance of a "gummy" smile.
The timeline for receiving a crown after crown lengthening depends on the individual case and the extent of the procedure. In general, it may take several weeks for the gums to fully heal and any swelling to subside before the final restoration, such as a crown, can be placed. Your dental specialist will provide you with an individualized treatment plan that takes into consideration your oral health needs and goals, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcome.
This depends on your insurance policy. Generally, insurers will cover medically necessary crown lengthening, but may not cover the procedure for cosmetic purposes. We will work with you and your insurer to help you learn more about your coverage and limits.
It may take up to 2-3 months for your gums to completely heal. However, you will only have about 2-3 days of downtime after your procedure. After this, you’ll mostly be able to resume your normal day-to-day activities.
You won’t feel any pain during your surgery. But after your numbing wears off, you may feel some discomfort. Your periodontist will give you a set of recovery instructions to follow, which will help you heal more quickly. Typically, you will be asked to rest for 2-3 days and eat soft foods for 1-2 weeks following your procedure. Gum tissues may continue to remodel and heal for 2-3 months after your procedure date. Follow the recovery instructions closely, and take any recommended or prescribed medication as directed.