What is a Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy

A procedure which is commonly used to surgically remove excess gum tissue is called a gingivectomy. In most cases, a periodontist will often perform the treatment. In many cases, gingivectomies are used to resolve side effects from gum disease. The procedure can also be used to cosmetically improve the appearance of the patient’s smile.

With a gingivectomy, extra gum tissue is removed, and gum disease can also be resolved. In addition, a gingivectomy can eliminate a gummy smile which negatively affects the patient’s smile and makes the teeth look shorter than normal.

Candidates

Patients with the following issues or conditions are good candidates for a gingivectomy:

  1. Mild to moderate gum disease
  2. Excess or overgrown gum tissue
  3. Receding gums
  4. Periodontal pockets
  5. After the completion of an orthodontic treatment

Types

There are two different types of gingivectomies which are summarized below:

  • Laser: A laser gingivectomy involves the use of a handheld laser to remove the gum tissue. A unique quality of laser treatment is that the treatment site is sealed and cauterized.
  • Traditional: a scalpel is used to remove the additional gum tissue. In some cases, a small amount of bone tissue is also removed. The periodontist will often use stitches to close the wound and slow bleeding.

Procedure

A summary of the gingivectomy procedure is outlined below:

  • Anesthesia: A local anesthetic will be used prior to starting the procedure to ensure the gums are numb. The goal with anesthesia is to ensure patients are comfortable throughout the duration of the procedure.
  • Gum tissue removal: A scalpel or laser is then used to remove the overgrown or excess gum tissue.
  • Reshaping gums: The surgeon or dental professional then reshapes the gums to achieve the desired appearance.
  • Stitches: Stitches are used to close the treatment site. This also aids in preventing additional bleeding. Sutures are not needed with a laser gingivectomy as the gum tissue is sealed by the laser.
  • Closure: Once the procedure is complete, a soft putty material is placed to protect the surgical site. In most cases, it will fall out on its own. It can also be removed during the follow-up appointment if needed.

Treatment Duration

On average, a gingivectomy takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. The overall treatment time will vary based on the amount of gum tissue which is being removed and tools used for the procedure. In severe cases, the treatment may be completed over the course of two separate appointments.

Recovery

A gingivectomy is considered a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. As a result, patients are released to go home after the treatment is complete. It can take an hour or more for the local anesthetic to completely wear off. Patients will be provided with specific aftercare instructions. In order to avoid pain and prevent complications, it is important to ensure these instructions are closely followed. On average, it takes most patients about a week to fully recover from a gingivectomy. Most patients are able to resume routine activities and return to work the same day.

Reach out to the office to schedule a meeting to discuss whether you may be a good candidate for a gingivectomy.

Why Do I Need a Gingivectomy?