How to care for yourself after crown lengthening surgery

22 October 2019
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Crown lengthening is a procedure in which the gums, and sometimes part of the tooth, are cut back to expose more surface to affix a crown. The procedure is common and safe, but there are some guidelines you should follow to ensure a swift recovery.

Use painkillers

Once the anaesthetic has worn off, you are likely to experience a certain amount of pain where the procedure took place. Your dentist may advise you just to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen, or they may prescribe a pain reliever. Make sure you understand how much you should take. You may also be prescribed with antibiotics.

Avoid strenuous activity

For the first two or three days you should avoid any kind of strenuous activity, as this could cause more bleeding and delay your healing. If you have a job that involves heavy lifting or physically demanding activity, you may want to take a couple of days off.

Don't drink or smoke

You should avoid alcohol or smoking at least until your first post-operative appointment, which will probably be seven to ten days after the operation. If you are a smoker, it might be an idea to try to give it up before the operation so you will not be tempted afterwards.

Use an ice pack

An ice pack can help to reduce swelling in the hours following the procedure. Apply it to your face for twenty minutes, then leave it off for another twenty minutes before re-applying.

Avoid hot and hard foods

For the first twenty-four hours you should avoid hot foods, as these can prolong the bleeding. You should also stick to soft foods while you are healing, and avoid anything spicy, sticky or acidic. Try not to use the part of the mouth where the surgery took place, and remember to drink plenty of fluids.

Leave the dressings in

Your dentist may have covered the area of the crown lengthening procedure with a small bandage or dressing. This helps to place the area where the gums were sutured, and you should leave it in for seven to fourteen days. Your dentist may change this dressing at your next appointment.

Crown lengthening is a procedure that may be performed for cosmetic or dental reasons. Provided you follow your dentist's instructions with the aftercare, you should have a full recovery and benefit from healthier and more attractive teeth as a result.