Functional Crown Lengthening

In some cases, teeth can become severely decayed or broken below the gum line. When this happens, simply removing gum tissue is not sufficient. It may be necessary to reshape the gum line and jaw bone in the area so that a quality restoration can be placed. In such cases, you will need to visit Dr. Nina Hirshman in Warrenton, VA for a functional crown lengthening procedure.

What is functional crown lengthening?

Functional crown lengthening is a procedure in which teeth that have broken off below the gum line or experienced significant structural decay can be saved by removing bone and gum tissue to enable repair and reinforcement with a high quality restoration. However, the procedure is more complicated than simply removing excess gum tissue. It is often necessary to adjust and reshape tissues so that a proper amount of tooth is exposed. This allows Dr. Hirshman to access the tooth and ensure that the restoration will fit properly.

How does it work?

Dr. Hirshman will administer a local anesthetic before beginning the procedure. Then, a few small incisions will be made so that excess gum tissue can be removed and the area reshaped. After the procedure has been completed, sutures as well as a protective bandage will be used to facilitate healing and create a new tooth to tissue relationship. You will also be asked to come in for a follow up appointment after about one week. This is so that we can check up on the healing process and give you further instructions on how to keep the area clean and prevent infection. Finally, once the area has completely healed after four to six weeks, you can have the final restoration procedure.

A tooth that is severely decayed or fractured below the gum line can often still be saved with a functional crown lengthening procedure, prior to the placement of the final restoration. To learn more about functional crown lengthening, contact Dr. Hirshman in Warrenton, VA to schedule your consultation today!