Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Crown Lengthening Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Functional Crown Lengthening (per tooth) | $800 – $2,000 | $300 – $800 |
| Cosmetic Crown Lengthening (gummy smile) | $1,000 – $3,000 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Multiple Teeth | $1,500 – $4,000 | $500 – $1,500 |
CPT/ADA Code: D4249
What Affects the Cost
- Geographic location (urban areas cost 20-40% more)
- Dentist experience and specialization
- Type of dental insurance plan (PPO vs HMO/DHMO)
- Whether the procedure is classified as preventive, basic, or major
- Lab and material costs
- Number of teeth or surfaces involved
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: 50-80% if restorative; not covered if cosmetic
Most dental PPO plans have an annual maximum of $1,000-$2,500. Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) is typically covered at 100%. Basic procedures (fillings, simple extractions) at 70-80%. Major procedures (crowns, bridges, implants) at 50%. Many plans have a 6-12 month waiting period for major work.
How to Save Money
- Dental schools offer procedures at 50-70% discount
- Dental discount plans save 20-50% for $80-$200/year
- Ask about payment plans — many dentists offer CareCredit 0% financing
- Community health centers provide sliding-scale pricing
- Get quotes from 2-3 dentists in your area
- Consider dental tourism for expensive procedures
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
If needed to place a crown or restore a broken tooth (functional), yes — typically at 50-80%. Cosmetic crown lengthening for a gummy smile is not covered.
When a tooth is broken below the gumline or there isn't enough tooth structure for a crown. The procedure exposes more tooth by reshaping gum and bone tissue.
Gums heal in 2-3 weeks. Full healing takes 3-6 months. The permanent crown is placed after full healing.