Restoring Access and Stability for Restorative Dental Work
Functional crown lengthening is a minor surgical procedure performed to expose more of a tooth's structure when there isn’t enough visible or accessible tooth above the gumline to properly support a restoration—such as a crown, bridge, or filling. Unlike cosmetic crown lengthening, which is done to enhance appearance, functional crown lengthening is done out of necessity for dental health and stability of the dental restoration.
Why Is Functional Crown Lengthening Needed?
When a tooth breaks near the gumline, decays deeply, or requires a restoration that extends below the gumline, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist for functional crown lengthening. The procedure allows for:
- Proper fit and retention of crowns or other restorations
- Access to decay or fractured areas below the gumline
- Preservation of periodontal health by reestablishing the correct biologic width/space from the bone
- Improved long-term success of restorations and reduced risk of gum inflammation
How the Procedure Works
Functional crown lengthening is typically performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure:
- The gum tissue is gently repositioned to expose more of the natural tooth.
- In some cases, a small amount of bone may be reshaped to ensure adequate tooth exposure and space for the restoration.
- Sutures are placed to secure the gums in their new position.
- Healing typically occurs over several weeks, after which your general dentist can complete the planned restoration.
What to Expect After Surgery
Post-operative care is generally straightforward. Patients may experience mild swelling, sensitivity to cold, or discomfort in the days following the procedure. A soft diet, gentle oral hygiene, and any prescribed medication or rinses will aid healing. Most patients are able to return to work the next day.
Is This the Same as Cosmetic Crown Lengthening?
Not quite. While both procedures involve removing gum tissue (and sometimes bone) to expose more of the tooth, their purposes differ:
- Functional crown lengthening is performed to allow for proper dental restoration and oral health.
- Cosmetic crown lengthening is performed purely for aesthetic reasons—such as correcting a “gummy smile” or improving tooth symmetry.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve been told there isn’t enough tooth structure to hold a restoration, functional crown lengthening may be the key to preserving your tooth. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sakhai.
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