A crown lengthening procedure can help remedy both a gummy smile and prepare a tooth for a dental restoration. These two procedures help improve both the form and function of your smile. Many patients, however, are concerned about the crown lengthening recovery and what they can expect. In this patient’s guide, we break down what you need to know to help ensure an easy and pain-free crown lengthening recovery.
I’m about to get a crown lengthening procedure — what should I expect?
Your tooth has two main part: the roots below the gumline, and the crown above. A crown lengthening procedure exposes more of the tooth either to relieve a gummy smile or prepare a tooth surface to receive a crown.
A crown lengthening procedure is a common dental surgery performed with a local anesthetic. If you are anxious about the procedure, your dentist may also prescribe a mild sedative to take beforehand to relax you.
Otherwise, once the surgical area is numb, your dentist will make small incisions in the gum to release it from the crown of the tooth. If the crown lengthening procedure is for a gummy smile, the incisions may stretch across the front of the mouth. If it is to prepare a tooth for a crown, your dentist may also work on neighboring teeth and gums for a more natural look. In some cases, it is also necessary to remove a small amount of the tooth’s roots.
After the gums are released and more tooth is exposed, your dentist will clean the area thoroughly, stitch it, and apply a surgical dressing.
The most important part of the procedure is the relationship between you and your dentist. If you have any questions about the crown lengthening procedure or crown lengthening recovery, talk to your dentist from the beginning. A great dentist will be open and honest about what to expect. Here’s some of the more common questions we receive at AZ Dentist.
What is the recovery time for crown lengthening?
Recovery times for crown lengthening vary, as all patients heal at different rates. However, on average, most patients are completely healed within three months.
If you suffer from other conditions or are in poor health, recovery may take longer.
Do crowns hurt afterward the procedure?
Your dentist will ensure your comfort during the crown lengthening using local anesthetic and a mild sedative if necessary.
Many patients are most concerned about crown lengthening recovery pain. While you may feel some discomfort, in general, if you follow your dentist’s instructions for pain management and healing you should not experience much, if any, pain.
Are there any crown lengthening risks I should be aware of?
Crown lengthening is a surgical procedure. As with all surgical procedures, there are some risks that you should be aware of. These include:
- Infection: The risk of infection is minor, especially if you follow your dentist’s instructions during your recovery
- Tooth sensitivity: Your teeth may be more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a period of time after your crown lengthening
- Loose teeth: During recovery, your teeth may feel looser in your mouth before your gums reattach
- Future dental challenges: If your tooth needs to be removed, it can be challenging to replace it with a dental implant
To keep the chance of complications or crown lengthening risks low, take good care of yourself as you recover and work with a highly-trained dentist.
What should I do if I experience problems?
While crown lengthening is a routine dental surgery with low risks, it is important to call your dentist if you experience any of the following:
- Fever
- Excessive swelling
- Excessive pain
- General feeling of being unwell
These may be signs of infection or complications.
How do I have the best crown lengthening experience?
To have the best crown lengthening experience, work with the best dentist you can find and follow their instructions before, during, and after the procedure. For best results, follow these six tips.
#1: Take prescription pain medication as prescribed
Follow your dentist’s directions for best results, especially when taking prescription pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You can also use over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen as directed for pain relief and relief of swelling. This will ensure your pain is managed from the beginning.
#2: Use ice for swelling
Some swelling is normal after surgery. Apply an ice pack for the first hours after surgery, repeating in a 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off pattern for both pain relief and swelling.
#3: Follow care instructions for the surgical site
Your dentist will apply a surgical dressing that is changed in a week or so.
Dental hygiene remains important during this time, but be careful when brushing the teeth near your crown lengthening. Gently brush teeth in the surgical area, and do not floss the surgical site until instructed to do so by your dentist. Flossing can remove your crown lengthening stitches. Brush and floss all other teeth as normal.
It can also be tempting to check the surgical site frequently, but poking around the surgical area can prolong healing times. Your dentist will check the site for you and let you know how healing is going.
#4: Avoid hot, spicy, or extra crunchy foods
For the first 24 hours, avoid all (temperature) hot foods as this can prolong bleeding. After that, avoid foods that are spicy, crunchy, or highly seasoned as they can irritate (or dislodge) stitches.
In general, a diet of soft and easy-to-eat foods is best for the week following your crown lengthening. Yogurt, soup, soft vegetables, and pasta are all good choices for nutrition and healing. Remember to drink plenty of fluids, too.
#5: Wear your dental appliance, if needed
Some patients will receive a clear stent or denture to protect the surgical area. Do not remove for at least 24 hours (or as instructed by your dentist). If the stent or denture pools with blood, you can rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater or chlorhexidine rinse without removing the dental appliance.
#6: Avoid alcohol and smoking
Tobacco and alcohol can both inhibit healing times. Alcohol can also irritate the surgical site. Always avoid them in the days following your procedure, until cleared by your dentist.
For a crown lengthening procedure in the Phoenix area, AZ Dentist knows how to care for patients. Your comfort and care are our priority. Get in touch today with any questions you have. We’re already ready to help.
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