The Crown Lengthening Procedure Guide: Cost & Healing Stages

Key Takeaways 

• Crown lengthening is a common periodontal procedure that exposes more of your natural tooth by reshaping the gum tissue and, in some cases, a small amount of bone. 
• The crown lengthening procedure might be recommended to prepare a tooth for a crown or filling, improve a gummy smile, or make a certain area easier to keep clean. 
• Most procedures take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated and the complexity of the case. 
• Recovery is usually pretty straightforward. Most people return to their normal routine within a day or two, while the gums continue healing over the following weeks. 
• In Utah, crown lengthening generally costs $300 to $1,200 per tooth, and dental insurance might help cover the cost if the procedure is medically necessary. 
• A consultation with an experienced periodontist is the best way to determine whether crown lengthening is the right treatment for your smile and long-term oral health. 

Hearing from your dentist that you need crown lengthening can leave you with many questions. Most people have heard of it but don’t exactly know what it is. While the name might sound intimidating, the crown lengthening procedure is a fairly common treatment that can help improve your oral health, prepare a tooth for restoration, or simply balance out your smile. Keep reading, and we’ll go into detail about cost, healing stages, what to expect throughout the process, and more.

If you need crown lengthening and you live in Utah, we can help you. We have multiple offices in the Salt Lake area for your convenience, including in Salt Lake City and South Jordan, near Bountiful, West Jordan, and Lehi.  

What is Crown Lengthening? 

Despite the name, crown lengthening doesn’t actually make your tooth longer. Instead, it gently reshapes the gum tissue, and sometimes a small amount of bone, to expose more of the natural tooth that’s already there.

The goal is to create a healthier, more functional smile while helping your dentist get the best possible long-term result. 

What is the Purpose of Crown Lengthening? 

The purpose of crown lengthening really depends on what your tooth needs. It’s all about creating a strong foundation. Sometimes that means exposing enough of the tooth for your dentist to place a stable, long-lasting crown or filling. Other times, it’s needed to improve the way your smile looks by reducing excess gum tissue and helping your teeth look more balanced. 

Crown lengthening can also make it easier to keep certain teeth clean. When too much gum tissue covers a tooth or creates deep pockets around it, plaque and bacteria can be harder to remove with normal brushing and flossing. By reshaping the gums, your periodontist can help create an area that’s much easier to access and care for in the right way. 

How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost? 

One of the first questions most people have is, “How much is this going to cost?”The answer can vary quite a bit depending on a few important factors. This includes things like how many teeth are being treated, how involved the procedure is, and whether it’s being done for a dental restoration or more to improve the appearance of your smile. In Utah, crown lengthening typically costs between $300 and $1200 per tooth. Plan on that number going up if it’s a more complicated case. 

If the procedure is needed to restore a damaged tooth or prepare it for a crown, dental insurance generally kicks in and covers part of the cost. If it’s being done for cosmetic reasons, it’s generally considered elective and might not be covered. The easiest way to get an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation with a periodontist. They can explain your treatment options, review any insurance benefits, and give you a clear idea of what to expect before moving forward.

How to Prepare for Crown Lengthening Surgery 

Before you go in for your procedure, your periodontist will examine your teeth and gums, take any necessary X-rays, and explain exactly what to expect. This is also a great time to ask any questions you might have about any medications you’re taking, the process in general, or recovery. 

Leading up to your appointment, your periodontist might recommend you avoid certain medications or supplements that have the potential to increase bleeding, but only if it’s safe to do so. Be sure to follow any instructions you’re given, including whether you should eat beforehand or arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards. It’s also a really good idea to brush and floss thoroughly before your appointment so your mouth is as clean as possible. 

What Happens During Crown Lengthening? 

The good news is that crown lengthening is a pretty routine procedure that’s done with your comfort in mind. Your periodontist will start by numbing the area with a local anesthetic, and if needed, sedation options will also be available to you if you need to feel more relaxed. 

Once you’re comfortable, the periodontist carefully moves the gum tissue away from the tooth to expose the area that needs treatment. If necessary, a small amount of bone might also be reshaped to create enough healthy tooth structure above the gumline. After everything is properly contoured, the gums are repositioned and secured with small sutures. The procedure can take anywhere from about 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how many teeth are being treated and the complexity of your case. You will receive further instructions to help with recovery once the procedure is finished.

What Can Go Wrong?

While crown lengthening is considered a safe and predictable procedure, it’s still a good idea to be aware of the symptoms that could be problematic as well as the potential risks. 

Possible risks and complications include: 

• Bleeding: Mild bleeding during and shortly after the procedure is normal, but excessive bleeding is uncommon. 
• Swelling and discomfort: Some swelling, tenderness, and soreness are expected for the first few days. 
• Infection: Although rare, an infection can develop if bacteria enter the surgical site. 
• Tooth sensitivity: Exposing more of the tooth can make it temporarily more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks. 
• Gum recession: Because more of the tooth is intentionally exposed, teeth may appear longer after healing, which is often expected but can be more noticeable than some patients anticipate. 
• Delayed healing: Smoking, certain medical conditions, or poor oral hygiene can slow the healing process. 
• Need for additional treatment: In some cases, further reshaping or other dental treatment may be needed to achieve the best long-term result. 

What To Do After Surgery 

The first few days after crown lengthening surgery are all about giving your gums time to heal. And keep in mind that it’s totally normal to have some soreness, mild swelling, and a little bleeding during the first day or two. Make sure to follow your periodontist’s instructions to keep you comfortable and help lower the risk of complications. 

Here are a few of the most important things to do after your procedure: 

1. Take all medications as directed. This might include pain relievers, antibiotics, or a prescription mouth rinse.
2. Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, eggs, smoothies, and pasta are all really good choices while your gums heal. 
3. Avoid chewing on the treated side. Giving the surgical area a break helps protect the stitches and allows the gums to heal properly. 
4. Keep your mouth clean. Continue brushing and flossing the rest of your teeth, but avoid the surgical area until your periodontist says it’s safe. Use any prescribed mouth rinse as directed. 
5. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products. Tobacco can slow healing and significantly increase the risk of complications. 
6. Skip heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a day or two. Heavy lifting and rigorous activity can increase bleeding and swelling. 
7. Don’t skip your follow-up appointment. Your periodontist will check how you’re healing, remove any sutures if necessary, and let you know when you can return to your normal routine. 

Most people are able to get back to work or their usual daily activities within a day or two, although complete healing of the gums takes longer. If you notice severe pain, excessive bleeding, increasing swelling after several days, or signs of infection such as fever or pus, contact your periodontist right away. 

What Not To Do After Surgery 

There are some things you can do that can hinder your healing after a crown lengthening procedure that are good to be aware of. While your gums are healing, try not to do anything that might put extra stress on the surgical area. Avoid chewing ice, nuts, chips, popcorn, or other hard, crunchy foods that could irritate the gums or disturb the stitches. It’s also best not to pull on your lip or cheek to check the area or repeatedly look at it in the mirror. This can interfere with the healing process. If you play contact sports or participate in other activities where your mouth could get bumped, make sure to get the ok from your periodontist before you return.

What are the Crown Lengthening Stages? 

Healing after this kind of procedure happens somewhat gradually. While everyone heals at a slightly different pace, most people tend to follow a similar timeline: 

• First 24-48 hours: Mild bleeding, swelling, and soreness are normal. Rest and follow your periodontist’s instructions to help keep any pain or discomfort under control. 
• First week: Swelling usually begins to improve, and your gums will start healing. If you have stitches that don’t dissolve on their own, they might be removed during a follow-up visit. 
• Two to four weeks: Most of the initial healing is complete, and your gums should feel much more comfortable. You can generally return to your normal routine at this point if you haven’t already. 
• Six to twelve weeks (or longer): The gums should continue to settle into the final position. If crown lengthening was done to prepare for a permanent dental crown restoration, your dentist might wait until this stage before completing the final work to ensure the gums have fully stabilized. 

A Healthier Smile Starts With the Right Foundation 

Healthy gums do much more than make you smile. They play an important role in protecting your teeth for years down the road. Whether crown lengthening is recommended to prepare for a dental restoration, improve the appearance of your smile, or support better oral health, understanding the process can help you feel more confident about your treatment. 

If you think crown lengthening might be right for you, or you’ve been referred to a periodontist in the Salt Lake City or South Jordan areas, the next step is to schedule an evaluation here at Utah Periodontist Specialists. Our personalized team can answer your questions, explain your options, and help you decide on the treatment that’s best for your smile.

FAQs 

Is Crown Lengthening Painful? 

Most people experience far less discomfort than they expect. The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery itself. It’s normal to have some soreness, swelling, or tenderness afterward, but this is usually quite manageable. 

How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost in Utah? 

The cost of crown lengthening in Utah typically ranges from $300 to $1,200 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the procedure and how many teeth are being treated. If the procedure is medically necessary, your dental insurance may cover part of the cost. Cosmetic treatment is often paid out of pocket. 

How Long Does Crown Lengthening Take? 

Most crown lengthening procedures take 30 minutes to 2 hours. The exact length depends on how many teeth are being treated and whether the procedure involves only the gums or both the gums and underlying bone. 

Is Crown Lengthening Covered by Insurance? 

It can be. If crown lengthening is needed to treat a dental problem or prepare a tooth for a crown or other restoration, many dental insurance plans provide at least partial coverage. If it’s done only to improve the appearance of your smile, it’s usually considered a cosmetic procedure and may not be covered. 

How Do I Know if I Should Get Crown Lengthening? 

The best way to know is to schedule an evaluation with a periodontist or your general dentist. Crown lengthening may be recommended if you have a tooth that’s broken or decayed below the gumline, need a dental crown but don’t have enough exposed tooth structure, or you’re unhappy with a gummy smile. An exam can determine whether it’s the right treatment for your situation. 

Can I Go Back to Work After Crown Lengthening? 

In many cases, yes. Most people are able to return to work or their normal daily routine within a day or two, especially if only a small area was treated. If your job involves heavy physical activity or you received sedation, your periodontist may recommend taking a little extra time off before returning.