How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that reshapes gum tissue, and sometimes bone, to expose more of a tooth’s surface. It can be done for restorative reasons, such as preparing a tooth for a crown, or for cosmetic purposes, such as reducing a “gummy” smile.
If you have been advised to get crown lengthening, you probably want to know how long the process will take from start to finish. The answer depends on your individual circumstances and can vary since the process consists of several independent stages, each with its own timeline.
In the Chair: Dealing With the Procedure Itself
The periodontist will begin by numbing the area with local anesthesia to make sure you remain comfortable. They will then make precise incisions, adjust the gum line to the desired position, and reshape any bone if necessary. Finally, the area will be cleaned and sutured to promote healing.
The surgical portion of crown lengthening is often shorter than patients expect. Treating a single tooth may take only 30 to 60 minutes. If multiple teeth are involved, or if bone reshaping is needed, the appointment can extend to more than an hour. But this is only the beginning of your crown lengthening journey…
The Early Healing Phase
Immediately after the procedure, you can expect some swelling, tenderness, and minor bleeding. Swelling usually peaks within two to three days before it starts to subside. Applying ice packs, keeping your head slightly elevated, and using recommended pain relief can make this stage easier. During this time, you should follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions closely. This usually means avoiding spicy or very hot foods, staying away from straws or vigorous rinsing, and holding off on smoking.
Within about a week to ten days, stitches are either removed or dissolve on their own, depending on the type used. You will probably notice a significant improvement in comfort and appearance by this point.
Although the gums are still tender to the touch, many patients return to most of their normal routines during this period. You may be able to brush near the treated area more comfortably and start incorporating a wider range of foods into your diet.
Full Tissue Maturation
Even though you will feel better after the first week or two, the deeper healing process takes longer. Soft tissue stabilization often requires six to eight weeks. In many cases, full healing is reached around the three-month mark.
This longer phase is especially important if the crown lengthening was done in preparation for a restoration like a dental crown or bridge. The gums need time to settle into their new shape so the restoration can fit properly and look natural. In some situations, especially when significant bone reshaping was required, healing can take up to six months.
It can be tempting to want to move quickly from the initial phase into the final restoration, but patience is a key part of the process. Allowing the gums to heal fully means the new crown or bridge will fit better, feel more comfortable, and last longer. Rushing the process risks poor alignment or exposure of the tooth’s edges.
By following your dentist’s advice and giving your mouth the time it needs, you can look forward to a healthy and lasting result.