Functional Crown Lengthening in Sterling, Leesburg & Aldie, VA
At NOVA Implant & Perio Specialists, Dr. Jean-Claude Kharmouche performs functional crown lengthening for patients who need additional tooth structure exposed to support a filling, crown, or restoration. When decay, fractures, or old restorations extend below the gumline, traditional dental work becomes impossible.
Functional crown lengthening reshapes the gum and bone around the tooth so your general dentist can restore it safely and predictably.
Patients across Sterling, Leesburg, and Aldie, VA rely on our periodontal expertise to ensure strong foundations for restorative and cosmetic treatment.
What Is Functional Crown Lengthening?
Functional crown lengthening is a periodontal procedure that exposes more of the natural tooth by adjusting the gum tissue—and when necessary, the supporting bone.
Unlike esthetic crown lengthening, which focuses on smile appearance, functional crown lengthening is performed to allow a damaged tooth to be restored properly.
This procedure is essential when:
- Decay extends deep beneath the gumline
- A tooth is fractured below the gum margin
- A restoration keeps falling off
- There isn’t enough healthy tooth to hold a crown securely
Functional crown lengthening ensures your dentist has the access and space needed to complete durable, long-lasting restorative treatment.
Benefits of Functional Crown Lengthening
The Functional Crown Lengthening Process
Functional vs. Esthetic Crown Lengthening
While the techniques may be similar, the goals are very different:
Functional Crown Lengthening
- Purpose: expose more tooth structure
- Needed for fractures, decay, or crowns
- Focus: function, stability, and long-term health
Esthetic Crown Lengthening
- Purpose: reshape the gumline for a better smile
- Focus: cosmetic enhancement
Dr. Kharmouche will determine the right approach based on your dental and restorative needs.
Why Do Patients Need Functional Crown Lengthening?
Your dentist may recommend functional crown lengthening if they cannot restore your tooth due to inadequate visible structure. Common reasons include:
- Deep cavities below the gumline
- Tooth fractures or cracks near the root
- Short, worn-down teeth
- Insufficient tooth height to support a crown or bridge
- Old fillings or decay extending into the jawbone area
Without functional crown lengthening, even the best dental restorations may fail prematurely.
Am I a Candidate for Functional Crown Lengthening?
You may be a good candidate if:
- A tooth broke below the gumline
- A crown keeps detaching
- Your dentist cannot reach or seal the decay
- You have deep cavities near the bone
- You want to save the tooth instead of extracting it
During your visit at our Sterling, Leesburg, or Aldie office, Dr. Kharmouche will assess the tooth’s condition and determine if functional crown lengthening is necessary.
Comfort & Recovery
Functional crown lengthening is performed with local anesthesia, with sedation options available for comfort. Most patients experience:
- Mild soreness for a few days
- Swelling that resolves quickly
- Return to normal activities within 24–48 hours
Your dentist will typically place the final crown after full healing, ensuring the gumline remains stable.