You need the right amount of gum tissue to enjoy good oral health and an attractive smile. But if you have too much, it can detract from your appearance and even create problems for your home care routine. At Avanti Dentistry, our dentists and team offer crown lengthening in Tysons Corner, Virginia. To learn more or schedule a visit with Dr. Farshad Farhoumand and associates, contact our office at (703) 952-0663.
Crown lengthening is a periodontal treatment that may be recommended for functional or aesthetic purposes. It is often recommended to treat “gummy smiles,” or smiles in which the teeth appear unusually short due to excessive or bulky gum tissue. This excessive gum tissue may cause the gums to look like they come down too far over the teeth, often covering teeth that are a normal length and shape. Crown lengthening involves removing a small amount of the gum tissue to reveal more of your natural tooth structure and improve the appearance of your teeth and smile. This treatment can usually be completed in a single appointment.
Our experienced dentists may also recommend crown lengthening in order to make another treatment possible. For example, crown lengthening may be recommended if a tooth is broken below or very close to the gumline, or if there is not enough tooth structure exposed to support a restoration. This treatment works to expose more of the tooth so that a restoration such as a dental crown or bridge can be successfully placed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crown Lengthening
What exactly is crown lengthening, and why would I need it?
Crown lengthening is a dental procedure where extra gum tissue—and sometimes a bit of bone—is gently removed to reveal more of the natural tooth structure. This can be necessary if a tooth is broken, decayed, or too short to support a dental crown. It’s also a cosmetic option to improve a smile that shows too much gum, often called a “gummy smile.” At Avant Dentistry, we carefully evaluate your situation to decide if this treatment will help you achieve a healthier and more attractive smile.
Will I feel pain during or after the crown lengthening procedure?
Before starting, we numb the area with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment. Afterward, some mild soreness or swelling is common, but this can usually be managed well with over-the-counter pain relief and cold packs. Our team will provide you with clear instructions to help ease any discomfort and support your recovery.
How long does it take to heal from crown lengthening?
Healing times vary, but most people find the initial soreness and swelling ease within a few days. The gums can take several weeks to fully recover and stabilize. If crown lengthening is done for cosmetic reasons, we usually wait around six to eight weeks before placing any crowns or restorations, giving your gums time to heal properly for the best final results.
Are stitches required after the procedure?
Stitches are often placed to close the treated area and help it heal. These stitches are typically designed to dissolve on their own, so you won’t need to come back for removal. We’ll guide you on caring for the area at home to prevent irritation and promote smooth healing.
Can crown lengthening be performed on more than one tooth at a time?
Absolutely. Depending on your needs, we can treat a single or several teeth in one procedure. Whether preparing a single tooth for a crown or improving the look of your entire smile, we tailor the treatment plan to fit your goals and oral health.
Are there any risks I should be aware of with crown lengthening?
Like any surgical procedure, crown lengthening carries some risks, such as infection, bleeding, or temporary sensitivity changes. However, we take every precaution to minimize these risks. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure your recovery goes smoothly and your smile looks its best.
How can I schedule a consultation for crown lengthening, and do you treat patients from nearby communities?
Call or text Avant Dentistry at (703) 952-0663 or use our online form to book an appointment. Our convenient Tysons Corner location near the Spring Hill Metro station offers flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and Saturdays. We welcome patients from McLean, Falls Church, Vienna, Great Falls, Annandale, Dunn Loring, Arlington, Fairfax, and surrounding areas, all receiving personalized, expert care in a comfortable environment.
For more information about crown lengthening and to schedule a consultation with our dentists, please contact our office and speak with a member of our team.