Is crown lengthening painful?

During the procedure, patients are given local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Post-operative discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Most patients report minimal pain and can return to their normal activities within a few days.

How long does the crown lengthening procedure take?

The duration of a crown lengthening procedure can vary depending on the number of teeth being treated and the complexity of the case. Generally, the surgery takes between one and two hours. Your periodontist will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific treatment plan.

Will my insurance cover crown lengthening?

Insurance coverage for crown lengthening depends on the reason for the procedure and your specific insurance plan. When performed for functional reasons, such as preparing a tooth for a crown, insurance may provide partial coverage. Cosmetic procedures are typically not covered. It's best to check with your insurance provider for details about your coverage.

How long is the recovery period after crown lengthening?

Most patients experience initial healing within two to three weeks following the procedure. However, complete healing of the gums may take several months. During this time, you'll have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and make sure your gums are healing properly.

Can crown lengthening be combined with other dental procedures?

Yes, crown lengthening can often be performed in conjunction with other dental treatments. For example, it may be done as part of a comprehensive smile makeover plan or in preparation for restorative procedures like dental crowns or veneers. Your oral surgeon or periodontist will discuss the best treatment sequence based on your individual needs.

Crown Lengthening | Periodontist in Seattle, WA

Sculpt Your Ideal Smile with Crown Lengthening Treatment

At Maring & Johnson Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we believe that a confident smile can change your life. Crown lengthening is a transformative periodontal procedure that can help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, our practice specializes in this advanced oral surgery technique, offering patients a path to improved oral health and enhanced aesthetics.

Don’t let a gummy smile or dental health issues hold you back any longer. Call our periodontist in Seattle today at 206-343-7500 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile.

What Is Crown Lengthening?

Crown lengthening treatment is a surgical procedure that reshapes the gum tissue and, in some cases, the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This technique is used for both functional and cosmetic purposes, addressing issues such as:

Insufficient tooth structure for dental restorations
Gummy smiles
Uneven gum lines
Tooth decay below the gum line

By carefully removing excess gum tissue and adjusting the bone levels, our skilled periodontist in Seattle can create a more balanced and attractive smile while also improving oral health.

The Benefits of Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening offers numerous advantages for patients seeking to improve their oral health and appearance:

Enhanced smile aesthetics
Improved oral hygiene
Better fit for dental restorations
Reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease
Increased confidence in your smile

Our Unique Approach: The Maring & Johnson Difference

At Maring & Johnson Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center, we take pride in our collaborative approach to patient care. Our dental practice stands out as a rare find in the Seattle area, where oral surgeons and a periodontist work together under one roof.

Dual Expertise for Comprehensive Care

Dr. Thomas Maring and Dr. Robert Johnson, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and Dr. Susan Maring, a periodontist, combine their specialized knowledge to provide unparalleled care. This unique collaboration allows us to offer a level of expertise that sets us apart in the field of oral surgery and periodontal surgery.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Our commitment to excellence extends to the technology we use. Our practice is equipped with advanced diagnostic and surgical tools which enables our periodontist to perform crown-lengthening procedures with precision and efficiency.

The Crown Lengthening Process

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our downtown Seattle dental office. During this visit, our team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals and concerns, and take any necessary X-rays and images. We will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Preparing for Your Procedure

Once we’ve determined that crown lengthening is right for you, we’ll provide detailed instructions to help you prepare for your surgery. This may include:

Adjusting medications
Arranging for transportation
Fasting guidelines (if needed)

The Crown Lengthening Procedure

On the day of your crown lengthening surgery, our team will ensure your comfort throughout the process. Here’s what you can expect:

Careful removal of excess gum tissue
Reshaping of underlying bone (if necessary)
Placement of sutures to promote proper healing

Recovery and Aftercare

Following your procedure, our Seattle periodontist will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to support your healing process. These may include pain management techniques, dietary recommendations, and oral hygiene guidelines. Our dental team will also work with you to schedule a follow-up appointment to check your healing process and provide any additional care you may need.

Everyone in the office was helpful, skillful, and efficient. I was treated with compassion and professionalism. My questions and concerns got immediate responses. I was so impressed! In addition, I experienced minimal pain after my tooth extraction.

— Marianne C.

I have been a patient of Dr. Susan Maring’s for more than 20 years. I have a rare condition that requires as much as monthly cleanings. She does the work herself, even when insurance doesn’t cover the cost of a periodontist doing the work of a hygienist. When I have needed the help of a dentist, she knew just the right people. She demonstrates tremendous commitment to her patients. I am lucky to have her in my life.

— Susan C.

From the time I first called to make my appointment, walked in the office and met with Dr. Maring, I was treated professionally and respectfully.

— Theresa L.

I have complete confidence in Dr Maring; he is efficient, thorough in explaining things, & excellent at what he does. I am so thankful for him & his staff! for him & his staff.

— Lucille N.

The treatment has been excellent and Dr Maring is thorough and thoughtful in his approach. I especially like the time he spent educating me on my condition and treatment options. Very kind and responsive office staff.

— Doug B.