If your dentist has referred you for crown lengthening, you may be wondering what the treatment is and how long the healing time will be. Cosmetic or to prepare for a dental crown, crown lengthening in Surrey is a routine procedure that exposes more of your tooth structure by altering the gum and bone that surrounds it.
This tiny surgery can pay big dividends for your smile and oral health. It’s frequently used to correct a smile that is too “gummy,” to prepare a tooth for a filling or crown, or to remedy gum disease.
What Is a Crown Lengthening Procedure?
The treatment is typically performed by a periodontist or an experienced dentist in Surrey. Your dentist will first numb the area using a local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort. Then, they remove or reshape gum tissue carefully and may also remove a little bit of bone around the affected tooth to reveal more of the tooth surface.
This is a 30 to 60 minute process, depending on how many teeth are to be moved and if bone is to be moved. The site is then cleaned, sutured if needed, and dressed with a bandage or dressing.
What to Expect After a Crown Lengthening Procedure?
After the treatment, you will experience some soreness and swelling of your gums. This is temporary and should resolve itself in a few days. You will be given instructions on aftercare by your dentist, such as brushing, foods to avoid, and how to reduce any discomfort.
You may be prescribed:
- Painkillers or antibiotics
- A mouth rinse to use specifically
- A diet of soft foods for a few days
Healing time is different, but most individuals will be a lot better in one week. Complete healing of the gums may take 1 or 2 months, based on your rate of recovery and how hard it was to heal.
What Are the Crown Lengthening Recovery Tips?
A smooth crown lengthening improvement depends on the dentist following your dentist’s instructions carefully. Here are a few helpful tips to support healing:
- Cool the area with an ice pack to bring down swelling
- Avoid spicy, crunchy, or hot foods
- Don’t brush or floss the treated area until your dentist says it’s safe
- Rest and avoid heavy activity for the first 24 – 48 hours
- Make sure to attend follow-up visits so your healing can be properly monitored
Your dentist will let you know when it’s safe to continue normal brushing and eating habits again.
What Happens After the Gums Heal?
Once healing is complete, you’ll notice that more of your natural tooth is now visible. This can improve both the look and function of your smile. If you’re getting a crown or filling, your dentist can now place it more securely.
When searching online for what to expect from crown lengthening, most people want to know if the results last, and the answer is yes. With good oral care, the new gumline usually stays healthy and stable for years. If it was done for cosmetic reasons, the results are usually long-lasting, and your smile will look more balanced and natural.
Let’s Reshape Your Gumline for Better Health and Appearance!
Crown lengthening can improve both your dental health and the look of your smile when done by an experienced team. Book your consultation today with the Dentists of Chimney Heights and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
FAQs
1. Does Crown Lengthening Hurt or Feel Uncomfortable?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during it. Some discomfort may happen afterward, but it can be managed with medication.
2. How long before I can go back to work?
Most people return to work or normal activities the next day, unless the procedure was extensive.
3. Will I need stitches removed?
In some cases, yes. Your dentist will let you know if you need to come back to have stitches taken out or if they will dissolve on their own.
4. Is It Safe to Eat Regular Foods After the Procedure?
Stick to soft foods for a few days. Avoid anything crunchy, spicy, or hot until your gums have healed.
5. Is Crown Lengthening a Permanent Fix for My Smile?
Yes. Once the gum and bone are reshaped, the results are typically permanent, though good oral care is still essential.