Crown lengthening is a common procedure used to prepare a tooth for a dental crown. Every year, millions of people need crowns for a variety of reasons such as protecting a damaged tooth, improving appearance, or supporting dental work like bridges or implants. In some cases, a crown can’t be placed unless more of the tooth is exposed, which is where crown lengthening comes in. If your dentist has recommended this procedure, one of the first things you might want to know is, how long does it take? If you need crown lengthening, read on to learn more about the procedure and the factors that impact how long it takes.
Why Is Crown Lengthening Needed?
To understand how long the procedure typically takes, it’s helpful to know why it’s performed. For a crown to fit securely, there needs to be enough tooth structure above the gumline for it to attach properly. If a tooth is broken, worn down, or has too much gum tissue covering it, there may not be enough surface area to support a crown. In these cases, your dentist may recommend crown lengthening to expose more of the tooth.
Crown lengthening can also be done for cosmetic reasons, especially for people with a “gummy smile” where excess gum tissue makes the teeth look shorter than they are.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The actual crown lengthening surgery is usually a short, outpatient procedure. In most cases, the procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This will depend on the number of teeth being treated and whether bone reshaping is needed in addition to gum tissue removal.
However, the full process of crown lengthening, from the first consultation to full recovery, takes longer than just the procedure itself.
What Affects How Long It Takes?
Here are a few key factors that can influence how long the full crown lengthening process takes:
- Planning and Consultation: Before anything can happen, your dentist will need to take X-rays and assess the treatment area. In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed ahead of time while the gum reshaping is being planned.
- Number of Teeth Involved: If you’re having crown lengthening done on just one tooth, it’ll likely go quicker than if multiple teeth are being treated.
- Recovery Time: After the procedure, initial healing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, with the most discomfort occurring in the first few days. Complete healing of the gums can take up to 3 months, especially if bone was involved in the reshaping.
- Follow-Up Visits: You’ll need a follow-up appointment, usually about a month after the procedure. This is so your dentist can check how your gums are healing and determine when it’s safe to proceed with placing your permanent crown.
What Are My Next Steps?
If you’ve been told that crown lengthening is part of your treatment plan, talk with your dentist about the full timeline based on your specific needs. They’ll walk you through what to expect and help you understand how long the process might take for your unique situation.