What Is a Crown Lengthening Procedure?
A crown lengthening procedure is a minor surgical treatment where gum tissue (and sometimes a small amount of bone) is reshaped to expose more of a tooth’s surface.
Despite the name, it doesn’t actually make your tooth longer. Instead, it removes excess gum (and occasionally bone) so more of your natural tooth is visible above the gum line.
So why would someone need this?
Crown lengthening is done for two main reasons:
- Functional: If you’re getting a dental crown or filling, but there isn’t enough tooth showing above the gums, this procedure gives your dentist more structure to work with.
- Cosmetic: If you have a “gummy smile” or uneven gum line, crown lengthening can help your teeth look longer and more balanced.
This technique is well established in dentistry and is supported by clinical evidence. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Periodontology found crown lengthening to be a predictable, effective way to increase clinical crown height for restorative or aesthetic purposes.
Why Would Someone Need Crown Lengthening?
Crown lengthening isn’t just for cosmetic touch-ups. It’s often a necessary step to prepare a tooth for long-term dental work or to improve the look of your smile.
Here are the most common reasons dentists recommend this procedure:
1. There’s Not Enough Tooth Above the Gums
If your tooth is broken near the gum line or has worn down over time, there might not be enough structure left to hold a crown or filling securely.
Crown lengthening exposes more of the tooth so your restoration stays in place and lasts longer.
2. You Have a Gummy Smile
If your teeth look short or your gums are more noticeable when you smile, crown lengthening can reshape your gum line for a more even, natural appearance.
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3. You Need Better Access for Oral Hygiene
Sometimes, excess gum tissue makes it harder to clean around a tooth properly. By adjusting the gum line, crown lengthening can improve access and reduce the risk of decay or gum disease.
Related reading: Proper Teeth Brushing Technique
4. Your Dentist Needs Better Visibility for Treatment
If decay or damage extends below the gums, your dentist may recommend crown lengthening so they can see and treat the problem more effectively.
It’s one of those procedures that serves both function and beauty—a great example of how dentistry and aesthetics go hand in hand.
How to Prepare for a Crown Lengthening Procedure
Getting ready for crown lengthening? No need to stress. It’s a routine procedure, and a little preparation can make the process even smoother.
Here’s what you can expect before your appointment:
Your Consultation
Your dentist or periodontist will:
- Review your dental and medical history
- Take X-rays to evaluate the tooth and the surrounding bone
- Explain how much gum or bone needs to be removed
- Go over your treatment plan, healing time, and what to expect
This is a great time to ask questions and talk about your comfort options, including local anesthesia or mild sedation if you’re feeling nervous.
Pre-Procedure Checklist
- Medication review. Let your provider know about any prescriptions, especially blood thinners or anti-inflammatory meds. You may be asked to pause or adjust them.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking a few days before surgery, as both can delay healing.
- Plan for time off. Most people return to daily activities quickly, but it’s smart to take it easy for 24–48 hours post-op.
- Bring a driver if sedation is part of your plan. You won’t be able to drive yourself home.
Being prepared helps ease anxiety and gives your dental team everything they need to set you up for a smooth recovery.
What Happens During the Crown Lengthening Procedure?
Most crown lengthening procedures are quicker and more comfortable than patients expect. It’s typically done in under an hour, right in your dentist’s or periodontist’s office.
Here’s a simple walkthrough of what happens:
Step 1: Numbing the Area
You’ll receive a local anesthetic to completely numb the area being treated. If you’re feeling anxious, talk to your provider about mild sedation. Some patients prefer it just for peace of mind.
Step 2: Gum Tissue Is Carefully Reshaped
Your dentist will gently remove or reshape a small amount of gum tissue. In some cases, they’ll also adjust the bone around the tooth to ensure there’s enough healthy tooth surface exposed.
This part is done with specialized tools, and sometimes a laser for added precision and faster healing.
Step 3: Cleaning & Suturing
Once the desired tooth length is achieved, the area is cleaned thoroughly, and a few tiny stitches are placed to help the gums heal properly.
Step 4: You’re Done—Usually Within an Hour
Depending on how many teeth are involved, most procedures wrap up in about 45–60 minutes. You’ll be given post-op instructions and likely a follow-up appointment to check healing and remove stitches if necessary.
And that’s it. Most people are surprised by how quick and easy it feels, especially with good numbing and a supportive team around you.
Are There Any Risks With Crown Lengthening?
Like any dental procedure, crown lengthening comes with a few things to keep in mind. But for most patients, it’s low-risk and well worth it.
Let’s talk about what’s normal and what’s rare.
Some Mild, Temporary Side Effects Are Totally Normal
Right after the procedure, you might experience:
- Slight swelling
- Tenderness near the treated area
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- A little bleeding while brushing
These symptoms usually go away within a few days. Your dentist will likely recommend over-the-counter pain relievers, and maybe a prescription rinse to keep things clean while you heal.
What About Bigger Risks?
They’re rare, but it’s always good to be aware.
In some cases, people notice:
- Increased tooth sensitivity (especially if more root is exposed)
- A looser-feeling tooth, particularly if a lot of bone had to be removed
- Slower healing if you smoke or have underlying health conditions
- Infection, which is uncommon but possible, your provider will watch for this at follow-ups
The good news? When crown lengthening is done by an experienced periodontist or dentist, complications are uncommon and outcomes are usually very predictable.
Most patients say they were surprised by how little discomfort they felt—and how quickly they bounced back.
What’s Recovery Like After a Crown Lengthening Procedure?
Healing from crown lengthening is usually straightforward. It’s more about giving your mouth time to rest and your gums time to settle than dealing with major pain.
Most patients are back to work or school within a day or two.
What to Expect Right After
You might have:
- Mild soreness around the gums
- Slight swelling or tenderness
- Sensitivity to temperature or brushing near the area
Totally normal. And totally manageable.
Your dentist may prescribe:
- A gentle mouth rinse to keep the area clean
- Antibiotics if there’s a risk of infection
- Pain relief if you’re feeling achy (most people do well with Tylenol or ibuprofen)
A Few Home-Care Tips That Make a Difference
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, eggs, or smoothies for the first couple days
- Avoid anything crunchy, spicy, or super hot
- Rinse with salt water or the prescribed rinse, especially after meals
- Don’t brush or floss directly on the treated area until your provider gives the go-ahead
- Ice packs can help reduce swelling if you feel puffy
Healing typically takes a few weeks, but the full tissue reshaping settles over 6 to 12 weeks. Once healed, your dentist can move forward with your crown, veneer, or other treatment.
In the meantime, just take it easy, follow your instructions, and know that a better smile is just around the corner.
Recommended reading: Best Foods for Faster Healing After Wisdom Teeth Removal
What Happens After the Crown Lengthening Procedure?
Once your gums have healed, you’ll be ready for the next step, whether that’s a dental crown, veneer, filling, or simply enjoying your new, more balanced smile.
Here’s what typically happens after recovery:
You’ll Have More Tooth Structure to Work With
If your dentist recommended crown lengthening for restorative reasons, this procedure gives them the clean, exposed surface they need to properly fit a crown or filling.
This means a better fit, stronger bond, and longer-lasting results.
Your Smile Might Look Different (In a Good Way)
For cosmetic cases, you’ll notice a more even gum line or longer-looking teeth. It’s a small change that can make a big visual difference, especially if you were bothered by a “gummy” look before.
Oral Care Becomes Easier
When your gum line is corrected, it’s often easier to brush and floss thoroughly around the treated teeth. That means better oral hygiene and fewer issues in the future.
Follow-Ups Are Important
Your provider will want to see you a couple of weeks after the procedure to make sure everything is healing well. In some cases, adjustments may be made before placing your final crown or restoration.
It’s a pretty low-maintenance recovery, and most patients feel it was 100% worth it once they see the final results.
Key Takeaways About Crown Lengthening
- A crown lengthening procedure reshapes your gum (and sometimes bone) to reveal more of your tooth.
- It’s commonly done to prep for a crown, fix a “gummy smile,” or improve dental hygiene access.
- The procedure is minor, and recovery is usually fast—most people go back to normal within 1–2 days.
- After healing, your smile will look more balanced, and your tooth will be easier to restore or maintain.
Bottom line? If your dentist recommends crown lengthening, it’s likely the most effective and conservative way to get the results you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is a crown lengthening procedure?
It is not painful during the procedure, but you’ll be fully numb. Afterward, you might feel a little sore, but most people manage with Tylenol or ibuprofen.
How is crown lengthening performed?
Your dentist removes or reshapes gum tissue (and sometimes bone) to expose more of the tooth. The area is cleaned, stitched, and you’re done in under an hour.
What is the surgical technique for crown lengthening?
It typically involves local anesthesia, then either a scalpel or laser to trim gum tissue. If bone removal is needed, specialized tools gently shape the area to allow more crown exposure.
Is crown lengthening worth it?
Absolutely—if you need more tooth structure for a restoration or want a cosmetic improvement, this one-time procedure can make all the difference.
What are the disadvantages of crown lengthening?
Minor soreness, possible sensitivity, and a slightly longer-looking tooth or altered gum line around the treated area. In rare cases, if too much bone is removed, the tooth may feel less stable.
Is there an alternative to crown lengthening?
Sometimes. If there’s enough healthy root below the gum, orthodontic extrusion or cosmetic bonding might help. But crown lengthening is usually the most effective long-term solution.
If you’re dealing with a broken tooth, prepping for a crown, or just unhappy with your gum line, crown lengthening could be the simple solution that unlocks your full smile potential.
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