What is Gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy is surgical removal of gum tissue, or gingiva. Gingivectomy can be used to treat conditions like gingivitis. It’s also used to remove extra gum tissue for cosmetic reasons, such as to modify a smile.
Who’s a candidate for Gingivectomy?
A dentist may recommend gingivectomy if you have gum recession from:
- Aging
- Gum diseases, like gingivitis
- bacterial infections
- Gum injury
What to expect during procedure?
A gingivectomy takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much gum tissue your dentist removes.
Minor procedures involving a single tooth or several teeth will probably only take a single session. Major gum removal or reshaping may take several visits, especially if your dentist wants one area to heal before they move onto the next.
Here’s how the procedure works:
- Your dentist injects local anesthetic into the gums to numb the area.
- Your dentist uses a scalpel or laser tool to cut away pieces of gum tissue. This is called soft tissue incision.
- During the procedure, your dentist will likely keep a suction tool in your mouth to remove excess saliva.
- Once the tissue has been cut away, your dentist will likely use a laser tool to vaporize remaining tissue and shape the gumline.
- Your dentist puts a soft putty-like substance and bandages on the area to protect your gums while they heal.
What’s recovery like?
Recovery from gingivectomy is typically quick. Here’s what to expect.
First few hours
You should be able to go home right away. Your dentist will probably use local anesthesia only, so you can usually drive yourself home.
You may not feel pain right away, but as the numbing wears off a few hours after the procedure, the pain may be more sharp or persistent. An over-the-counter pain medication.
Your gums will probably also bleed for a few days. Replace any bandages or dressings until bleeding stops or until your dentist advises that your gums can be exposed again.
Your dentist or a dentist assistant should explain how to change your bandages or dressings before sending you home. If they didn’t explain it or if you’re unsure about the instructions, call their office to ask for instructions.
The next few days
You may have some jaw pain. Your dentist will likely tell you to eat only soft foods so that eating doesn’t irritate or damage your gums as they heal.
Try applying a cold compress to your cheeks to soothe any pain or irritation that spreads into your mouth.
Use a warm saltwater rinse or saline solution to keep the area free of bacteria or other irritating substances, but avoid mouthwash or other antiseptic liquids.
You may also need to take antibiotics to prevent gum infections.
Long Term
Any pain and soreness will subside after about a week. See your dentist again to make sure the area’s healing well and that you can resume a normal diet.
Lastly, take good care of your teeth. Brush and floss twice per day, avoid smoking, and cut back on foods with a lot of sugar.