Crown Lengthening in
Monmouth County
Progressive Periodontics & Implant Dentistry provides crown lengthening procedures in Eatontown & Howell, NJ. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Crown lengthening is a simple procedure that exposes more of a tooth’s structure for either cosmetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for the placement of a crown. The process involves recontouring the gum tissue and, when needed, adjusting the support that holds the tooth in place to expose more of the tooth.
What to Expect During Crown Lengthening
The first step in crown lengthening is to numb the soft tissue where we’re working to ensure that you don’t feel any pain during the procedure. Next, we trim back the excess gum tissue and some of the support around the tooth in order to expose more of the tooth. The new position of the gum will be determined by the amount of tooth that needs to be exposed either for esthetic or functional reasons. Your gums are sutured into the new position. To protect the area, a putty bandage is typically placed.
Crown lengthening is an outpatient procedure with very few risks or complications involved. That said, most patients will function normally the next day. Typically, you will only need mild analgesics like ibuprofen or Tylenol® for a few days. Until your gums have fully healed, you will need to be careful to avoid disturbing the healing when eating and brushing and to avoid tobacco and alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening
How painful is a crown lengthening procedure?
Most patients are nervous that crown lengthening will be painful, but with local anesthetic, you won’t feel any pain while we work. Most patients will function normally the next day. Typically, you will only need mild analgesics like ibuprofen or Tylenol® for a few days. We will provide you with very specific instructions for managing any discomfort.
How long does it take to recover from crown lengthening?
The recovery period is usually about a week—in other words, after a week, you’ll feel back to normal. Plan on taking the day off on the day of the procedure. During the initial first week, avoid physical exertion and exercise. Your gums will be quietly healing for up to two or more months after the crown lengthening procedure before being ready to have any work done on the teeth.
Is crown lengthening worth it?
Patients who choose to have crown lengthening done to improve the appearance of their smiles are overwhelmingly pleased with the results. For patients who have always felt self-conscious about having a “gummy” smile, crown lengthening gives them the confidence to smile proudly for the first time. For patients who need crown lengthening to expose more tooth structure to allow a crown or filling to be placed, it is the only treatment or you risk bone loss, recession, failure of the restoration, or even tooth loss.
Does insurance cover crown lengthening?
Crown lengthening is usually only covered by insurance when it is required in order to place a dental crown. Cosmetic crown lengthening is not covered by dental insurance.
How much does crown lengthening cost?
A single tooth crown lengthening is approximately $950.00 in Monmouth and Ocean counties. However, the overall fee depends on the number of teeth we’re working on and the particular needs that you have. At your consultation visit, we will be able to review the anticipated fees with you.
Do you have more questions? Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment.