Gingivectomy / Gum lift
Rockwall & Paris, Texas
A gingivectomy is a procedure that involves the surgical removal of excess gum tissue. This procedure can be performed as a treatment method for gingivitis or for cosmetic reasons on the front teeth to improve the ratio of gum to teeth and create a more balanced and harmonious smile. Similar in nature to the crown lengthening procedure, a gingivectomy involves removing a portion of the gum tissue around the tooth, but does not involve removing any bone. Removing this excess gum tissue will not only result in a smile that you find more aesthetically pleasing, it can also improve accessibility and our ability to properly perform a deep cleaning to correct gum disease.
To learn more about the gingivectomy procedure and other services offered at our office, please refer to the following. To schedule an appointment for crown lengthening, contact our Rockwall office today at (972) 771-8640 or our Paris office at (903) 785-4832.
Gingivectomy
Pros & Cons of Treatment
If a gingivectomy has been recommended to treat periodontal disease, the benefits you will enjoy following the procedure are substantial and long lasting. In addition to the negative impact gum disease can have on your oral health, causing issues like receding gums or loss of teeth, the bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease also increases your risk of developing issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other systemic problems.
If you are considering a gingivectomy/gum lift for cosmetic reasons and are unsure whether having the procedure performed is worth the time and energy, it may be helpful to consider the following benefits you will enjoy:
- Restores gum line to optimum position
- Improves your oral health
- Reduces risk of tooth decay
- Results are immediate
- Long-lasting results
- Minimally invasive
- Short procedural time
- Can usually be completed in one visit
A smile is a universal symbol of joy and a powerful form of non-verbal communication that transcends language barriers and enhances feelings of positivity, motivation, and optimism. Despite knowing the importance of a good smile, many people unnecessarily walk around with a smile that makes them feel self-conscious. Following your gingivectomy ( frequently referred to a “gum lift” when performed on the upper front teeth) procedure, you can stop worrying about your smile and start feeling confident, knowing that your smile conveys friendliness, sincerity, and joy.
Gingivectomy
Treatment Plan & Procedure
Prior to your gingivectomy procedure, an initial consultation will be scheduled, during which we will perform a thorough evaluation to identify any underlying issues that need to be addressed and determine whether a gingivectomy is the best treatment option for you. If a gingivectomy procedure is the best treatment for you needs, we will administer a local anesthetic to ensure you experience minimal discomfort. We also offer several different dental sedation options, including oral and IV sedation, to ensure you are calm and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Once you are sufficiently numbed and comfortable, we will begin by making small incisions and tease the gums away from the teeth in order to access and remove the excess gum tissue and recontour your gum line to where the optimal shape and position are reached. Once the procedure is completed you can immediately begin to enjoy your new natural looking, attractive smile.
Gingivectomy
Post Procedure Care
When the gingivectomy procedure is complete, we will discuss aftercare instructions which should be closely followed to ensure a quick recovery and avoid complications. We will do everything we can to ensure you have as short a recovery process as possible, and by following these steps, your recovery period will be over in no time.
- Mild pain may begin to develop a few hours after your appointment. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain-relieving medication or prescribed painkillers. Take as directed by our office.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent gum infections. Take as directed by our office.
- A cold compress can help soothe irritation or pain
- Ice therapy can help reduce swelling
- Keep the area free of bacteria using a warm saltwater rinse or the recommended gel or rinse provided by our office
- Avoid smoking or alcohol
- Continue brushing as usual in all untreated areas, but avoid brushing surfaces of teeth that were involved in the treated area until directed to do so
If you follow these aftercare instructions and continue experiencing issues such as abnormal discharge or pus, bleeding that does not stop, excessive pain, and/or fever, please do not hesitate to contact our office as soon as possible.
Gingivectomy
Costs Associated
Procedural costs will largely depend on whether additional procedures are necessary and how severe your case is. For patients who have dental insurance, although we are not in-network, we will gladly help prepare and file your claim to ensure you receive your maximum reimbursement.
Payment is due in full on the day of treatment. We accept cash, check, Visa, Discover, Mastercard, and American Express. If you are concerned about the cost of receiving treatment, please know that we offer our patients Compassionate Finance, which offers a variety of payment solutions with fixed interest rates and manageable monthly payments and CareCredit®, which offers 24-monty payment plans with zero interest, as well as low-interest financing for 24-60 months.