How Painful Is Crown Lengthening? Facts, Experiences, and Healing

July 16, 2025

Crown lengthening is a routine dental surgery to expose more tooth by reshaping gum and bone. How painful is crown lengthening? During the procedure, pain is minimal thanks to local anesthesia. Most patients feel only pressure or tingling, not actual pain. Some choose sedation for extra comfort.



What to Expect: Discomfort and Recovery

  • After anesthesia wears off, mild to moderate pain is normal.

  • Swelling and tenderness peak in the first 48 hours and fade with good care.

  • Pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Dentists may prescribe stronger pain relievers for the first days.

  • Most recover initial comfort within a week and return to daily life. Full gum healing takes around three months.

  • Severe pain after crown lengthening is rare and signals a complication. Always contact your dentist if pain is intense or persistent.

At Schwimmer Dental, most patients report that crown lengthening feels less painful than expected. National studies show post-surgery discomfort is mild for the majority. About 90% of cases need only non-prescription pain relief; less than 10% require prescription medication.


How painful is crown lengthening? With modern techniques, it’s a quick, manageable experience for most. Book a “Smooth Recovery” visit at Schwimmer Dental—bring your favorite comfort snack, and let us guide you through every stage with expert care and personal tips!


Sources:

  1. https://www.healthline.com/health/crown-lengthening
  2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9327476/

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