Crown Lengthening Recovery
Often done to prepare a tooth for a crown, or for cosmetic reasons. Here’s what to expect.
The Full Guide
Sometimes there isn't enough visible tooth above the gumline for a crown to grip securely, or a patient simply wants to correct a "gummy smile" where the gums cover too much of the teeth. Crown lengthening reshapes the gum tissue (and sometimes a small amount of bone) to expose more of the tooth.
Functional: a tooth is broken or decayed at the gumline and needs more exposed structure before a crown can be placed securely. Without enough tooth to grip onto, a crown won't stay put long-term. Cosmetic: the gums cover too much tooth surface, making teeth look short; recontouring several teeth at once creates a more balanced, proportionate smile.
Wondering if your tooth needs crown lengthening before its crown, or curious about a gummy smile fix? Book a consultation and we'll take a look.
No special prep needed beyond a normal meal beforehand, since you'll be numb for a few hours afterward.
Local anesthetic numbs the area. For upper teeth, numbness is usually limited to the cheek, lip, and gum near the tooth. Lower back teeth typically require a "block" injection, which numbs an entire side of the lower jaw. Lip, chin, and often the tongue, not just the tooth being worked on.
A small incision lifts the gum tissue away from the tooth and bone, excess gum tissue is trimmed to the desired level, and if needed, a small amount of bone is reshaped to maintain healthy distance between bone and gumline. The gum is repositioned and sutured back into place.
You'll be numb for a couple hours, with mild swelling, tenderness, and minor bleeding or oozing normal for the first 24–48 hours.
Discomfort and swelling are usually highest now. Take pain medication as directed, ice the area in 20-minute intervals, and keep your head elevated when resting.
Swelling and soreness steadily improve; sutures are typically removed around 7–14 days.
Gum tissue heals over and sensitivity fades. Stick to soft foods.
Gum tissue stabilizes and final results become visible.
Avoid smoking and alcohol, which both slow healing. Use a soft-bristled brush and clean gently around (not directly over) the surgical site. If this was done to prepare for a crown, that crown typically isn't prepared until about 6–8 weeks later, once the gum has fully settled, placing it sooner risks the gumline shifting back up as it heals.
bleeding doesn't slow with gentle pressure, swelling worsens after day 3 instead of improving, or pain isn't controlled by your medication.
A note on this guide: this is general guidance. Your treating doctor's specific instructions for your individual case always take priority over anything written here. If something feels off or you're unsure, call us. Don't wait it out.
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Questions about your recovery?
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