Crown Lengthening Pain, Healing, and Risks
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over the natural tooth to provide aesthetic or structural benefits. Caps are often used for broken, misshapen, or cracked teeth but can also be used to complete other dental procedures such as dental implants, root canals, and bridges.
In order to properly place a crown, sufficient existing tooth must be present. In cases where there is not sufficient existing tooth surface, a crown lengthening procedure may be needed to recontour the gumline and expose more of the tooth’s surface. Patients that have been advised to have a crown lengthening procedure, may be concerned with the pain, healing time, and possible risks.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Generally, the procedure is performed while the patient is under local anesthesia but in some cases, a sedative may be administered as well. As such, any pain or discomfort during the procedure is minimal. However, once the anesthesia wears off, the patient will feel some pain. To combat any discomfort, the oral surgeon may prescribe pain relievers and special mouth rinse to help the gums heal.
Healing and Recovery Time
From start to finish, the recovery time for a crown lengthening procedure is roughly three months but patients will be able to resume normal functions while the gums are healing. Because it can exacerbate bleeding and inhibit healing, strenuous physical activity or exertion should be avoided during the first few days of recovery.
The oral surgeon will provide the patient with specifics on their recovery but in general, the following guidelines should be adhered to:
- Take Prescription or OTC Medication: Most aftercare instructions will include taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen at regular intervals. Antibiotics may also be prescribed as well as prescription painkillers (Vicodin, Tylenol with Codeine, Darvocet).
- Use Ice Packs: To combat swelling, an ice pack should be used periodically for the first few hours post-surgery.
- Avoid Hot Foods for 24 Hours: Because they can cause bleeding to last longer, hot foods should be avoided during the first 24 hours after the procedure.
- Leave Dressing in for 7-14 Days: Dressings may be replaced by the doctor once or twice during this time.
- Brush and Floss Carefully: To avoid injuring the area, care should be taken when flossing and brushing.
- Wear the Stent or Denture: If the doctor included wearing a stent or upper denture in the aftercare instructions, ensure it is not removed for 24 hours.
- Eat Softer Foods: Stick to a diet of softer foods and avoid chewing on the affected area.
Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco: Refrain from both for at least 7-10 days post-surgery.
Risk Factors and Side Effects
As with any surgical procedure, there is some risk of infection after a crown lengthening procedure. To minimize the risk of infection, be sure to follow all postoperative instructions. If any infection is suspected, the patient should contact their dentist as soon as possible.
Teeth sensitivity is a potential side effect after the procedure but will subside over time. In addition, the tooth may look longer than adjacent teeth and if bone needed to be removed, the tooth may feel loose. Should the tooth be lost in the future, the crown lengthening could make it more difficult to place a dental implant.