Post Treatment Healing For Crown Lengthening Patients

Crown lengthening is a common dental procedure that involves reshaping gum tissue—and sometimes bone—to expose more of a tooth’s surface. It is often performed to prepare for a dental crown, correct a gummy smile, or improve gum health.

While crown lengthening is a routine procedure with highly predictable outcomes, proper post-treatment care is essential for comfortable healing, reduced swelling, and long-term success.

At McLevin Dental Clinic, we are committed to helping you navigate every step of your recovery. This detailed guide explains how to support your healing after crown lengthening, ensuring a smooth, successful experience.

What to Expect After Crown Lengthening Surgery

Mild to moderate swelling: Peaks within 48–72 hours.

Tenderness or soreness: Lasts for 3–7 days.

Gum sensitivity: Common around the treated area.

Sutures present: May dissolve naturally or be removed in a follow-up visit.

Slight bleeding or oozing for the first 24 hours is normal.

Essential Post-Treatment Care for Crown Lengthening

1. Control Bleeding with Gauze

Bite gently on a piece of gauze for 30–60 minutes immediately after the procedure.

Minor oozing for the first day is normal.

Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.

2. Manage Swelling with Cold Compresses

Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face near the treated area for the first 24–48 hours.

Use in 15-minute intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) to minimize swelling and discomfort.

3. Use Warm Compresses After 48 Hours (If Needed)

Apply a warm compress to improve blood circulation and reduce lingering stiffness or swelling.

4. Stick to a Soft, Non-Irritating Diet

For the first 3–5 days, choose foods like:

Yogurt

Applesauce

Mashed potatoes

Scrambled eggs

Smoothies (without straws)

Lukewarm soups

Avoid spicy, crunchy, chewy, or acidic foods that may irritate healing gums.

5. Maintain Gentle Oral Hygiene

Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding the surgical site for the first 24–48 hours.

Resume gentle brushing near the area once cleared by your dentist.

Begin warm saltwater rinses (½ teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) after 24 hours, rinsing 2–3 times daily to reduce bacteria and promote healing.

6. Take Medications as Prescribed

Follow all instructions for:

Antibiotics (if prescribed) to prevent infection.

Anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Pain relievers as needed.

7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Both hinder tissue healing and significantly increase the risk of infection.

Avoid for at least 7–10 days, ideally longer.

8. Rest with Your Head Elevated

Use an extra pillow while sleeping during the first 2–3 nights.

This helps minimize swelling and encourages fluid drainage.

Signs of Healthy Healing

Swelling peaks within 48–72 hours, then starts to decrease.

Soreness improves day by day.

Gums begin to form a natural, healthier contour as they heal.

A whitish film may appear on the gum line—this is part of normal healing, not an infection.

When to Contact McLevin Dental Clinic

Call us if you experience:

Persistent bleeding beyond 24 hours.

Swelling that worsens instead of improving after 72 hours.

Severe pain that doesn’t subside after 3–5 days.

Signs of infection:

Pus

Foul odor

Fever

Redness spreading from the site

Healing Timeline After Crown Lengthening

First 24–48 hours: Bleeding stops; swelling starts.

Days 3–5: Swelling peaks, then decreases; soreness reduces.

1 week: Significant improvement in comfort; sutures may dissolve or be removed.

2–4 weeks: Soft tissue healing completes, and gums stabilize.

6–12 weeks: The gum line fully matures, allowing for final restorations like crowns.

Long-Term Care After Crown Lengthening

Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Floss gently after the initial healing phase.

Use fluoride toothpaste to protect tooth surfaces exposed during the procedure.

Avoid aggressive brushing or flossing that could harm delicate gum tissue.

Attend regular check-ups at McLevin Dental Clinic to monitor gum health and finalize restorative treatments.

Protect Your Gum Health and Your Smile

Proper post-treatment care after crown lengthening ensures a smooth, complication-free recovery and supports the success of any future restorative procedures. With gentle oral hygiene, smart food choices, and close follow-up, your gums will heal beautifully—helping you enjoy a healthier, more balanced smile.

At McLevin Dental Clinic, our team is dedicated to supporting your comfort, healing, and long-term oral health.

Schedule Your Post-Surgery Check-Up Today

Have questions about your crown lengthening recovery or ready for a follow-up? Contact McLevin Dental Clinic today. Our expert dental team is ready to assist you in healing comfortably and achieving optimal results.