Functional Crown Lengthening - Fairfax, VA

Crown Lengthening Creates Enough Room For High Quality Restorations

Functional Crown Lengthening

If you have a tooth or several teeth that are very decayed or broken below the gum line, you may need a periodontics procedure such as functional crown lengthening to restore your smile. This procedure may also be performed if there is insufficient tooth structure available for a tooth restoration procedure in Fairfax, VA. Dr. Withers will reshape the gums and supporting bone tissue so that there is enough room for a high quality restoration to be placed.

close up of woman smilingclose up of woman smiling

Functional Crown Lengthening in Fairfax, VA

Periodontics treatments that involve reshaping the gums are often referred to as periodontal plastic surgery. Crown lengthening may be needed when there is an excess amount of gum tissue and it is affecting the quality and health of your smile. Dr. Withers may recommend functional crown lengthening before any type of cosmetic or restorative procedure, or you may be referred by your general dentist to our office for this procedure. If you need a crown, for example, and there is not enough tooth structure exposed for the crown to hold on to, Dr. Withers can remove gum and bone tissue to elongate the tooth just enough to support your new restoration. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and Dr. Withers will create small incisions to remove the gum and bone tissue and reshape the treated area. Sutures are placed after gum reduction surgery is completed and those are removed within two weeks. The entire healing process typically takes between six to eight weeks. At that stage, you are ready for the final restoration phase.

 

Esthetic Crown Lengthening - Fairfax, VA

Esthetic Crown Lengthening Can Correct a Gummy Smile in Fairfax, VA

Esthetic Crown Lengthening Cosmetic Dentistry Services

Esthetic crown lengthening is a simple procedure designed to treat a gummy smile. It takes about an hour to perform and involves removing excess gum tissue and possibly bone to reshape the smile. Dr. Withers will work to exposure more of the natural tooth surface and can perform this procedure on a single tooth or on the entire smile to enhance your appearance in Fairfax, VA. The result is a wider and more aesthetically pleasing smile!

woman with curly hair and a nice smilewoman with curly hair and a nice smile

Cosmetic Dentistry Treatment for a Gummy Smile in Fairfax, VA

If you are self-conscious about your gummy smile, you may be a good candidate for this cosmetic dentistry procedure. The esthetic crown lengthening procedure is also known as a ‘gum lift’ because it involves removing unwanted gum tissue and recontouring the gums if needed. The result is a more attractive smile. In addition to providing cosmetic benefits, this procedure can also help you maintain a healthy mouth. Gum reduction surgery may be effective for preventing periodontal disease because it can decrease the depths of periodontal pockets between the gums and teeth where bacteria can grow.The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Dr. Withers will need to make small incisions in the gum tissue to help separate the tissue from the teeth, and in some cases, remove a small amount of bone tissue as well. A protective bandage will be placed over the treated area to promote healing and you will return to the office within one to two weeks for a follow up appointment.

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Crown lengthening can be an effective procedure when excess gum tissue is causing esthetic or health issues in your mouth. If you think that you may need cosmetic dentistry treatment for a gummy smile in Fairfax, VA, set up your consultation with Dr. Withers as soon as possible.
Dr. Withers is a Periodontist in Fairfax, VA. Dr. Withers and his team are here to serve you and meet your dental needs as comfortably as possible. It is our goal to make your experience in our Fairfax VA Dental office a pleasant visit and restore your dental health quickly and professionally.

Dr. Withers

J. Alexander Withers, DDS, MS

Welcome to the practice of J. Alexander Withers, DDS, MS. Led by board-certified periodontist Dr. J. Alexander Withers, our Fairfax, VA, practice offers advanced solutions for gum disease, dental implants, and full-mouth restoration. From laser-assisted procedures like LANAP to personalized implant treatment using digital X-rays and Cone Beam CT imaging, every aspect of care is designed for precision, comfort, and long-term results. We are proudly affiliated with:

  • American Dental Association 
  • Virginia Dental Association
  • Northern Virginia Dental Society
  • American Academy of Periodontology
  • Academy of Osseointegration
  • Southern Academy of Periodontology
  • Northern Virginia Dental Implant Society

Schedule your consultation online or call our Fairfax office today at (703) 273-3300 to start your path to optimal oral health.

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