Cosmetic Dentistry
Precise recontouring of gum tissue to reveal more of your natural tooth structure. Planned digitally. Executed with surgical accuracy. Designed to create balance.
The Approach
Crown lengthening is not simply cutting gum tissue. At Capital Dental Design, every case begins with a thorough evaluation and digital scan. Dr. Forbes maps the ideal gumline relative to your facial proportions, lip position, and tooth structure before any tissue is touched.
Whether you are preparing for a dental crown or addressing a gummy smile, the goal is the same: a harmonious ratio between teeth and gums that looks natural and supports long-term oral health.
When gum tissue covers too much of your teeth, even perfectly healthy enamel can appear short or uneven. Crown lengthening restores the proportions that create visual harmony.
When It Is Needed
Crown lengthening serves both cosmetic and restorative purposes. It is commonly performed before placement of a dental crown when there is not enough tooth structure above the gumline. It is also used to correct a gummy smile, reshape uneven gum tissue, and expose decay or fractures hidden beneath the gums for proper treatment.
See Real Results
The Process
Every step is deliberate. Nothing moves forward without a plan and your approval.
Dr. Forbes evaluates your teeth and gums, photographs your smile, and takes digital scans. This data is used to determine whether crown lengthening is the appropriate treatment and to plan the exact tissue adjustments.
Using your scans and photographs, Dr. Forbes maps the ideal gumline. You review the plan and understand exactly how much tissue will be adjusted and where.
A local anesthetic is administered to ensure complete comfort. Dental sedation is also available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience during the procedure.
Dr. Forbes removes small amounts of gum tissue, and in some cases bone, to reveal more of the natural tooth structure. A scalpel or laser may be used depending on the case requirements.
The treatment area is carefully sutured. Detailed aftercare instructions are provided. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, with full healing in two to three weeks.
Get Started
Have questions or ready to take the next step? Fill out the form below and our team will be in touch within one business day.
Real Patients, Real Results
Every case documented from initial presentation through final delivery.
Why Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening creates a more even, balanced ratio of teeth to gums. The result is a smile that appears more symmetrical and proportionate.
When a tooth lacks sufficient structure above the gumline, crown lengthening exposes enough enamel to securely seat a dental crown, improving fit and longevity.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically completed in a single visit. Recovery is straightforward and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
Once gum tissue is removed, it does not grow back. Provided you maintain good oral hygiene and schedule regular dental examinations, the results are lasting.
Removing excess tissue reduces the pockets where bacteria can accumulate, supporting better periodontal health over time.
By exposing more tooth structure, crown lengthening allows dental crowns and other restorations to fit more precisely, reducing the risk of future complications.
Your Dentist
The only provider in Richmond certified in Digital Smile Design. Advanced training in cosmetic and implant dentistry. Every crown lengthening case receives his personal attention from consultation through final result. One doctor. One standard.
Meet Dr. Forbes
Address
6946 Forest Ave, Suite 205
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone
804.320.8894Hours
Monday – Thursday
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
