Why Do I Need a Gingivectomy
There are a number of reasons that you may be advised to have a gingivectomy. A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess or overgrown gum tissue and improves the appearance of teeth. Patients that have a gummy smile often opt for a gingivectomy to lift their gum line and allow more tooth structure to show. Other reasons that a patient may need a gingivectomy include patients that have taken certain medications or have undergone hormonal changes that have caused their gum tissue to grow beyond what is normal for them.
Gingivectomy can also be used in conjunction with other treatments such as the placement of a crown or veneers. Patients who have experienced an injury to their gum tissue, gum disease, or gum overgrowth due to aging or medications may be a candidate for a gingivectomy.
Patients who have periodontal disease may also be advised to have a gingivectomy to prevent further damage and make it easier for your dentist to clean your teeth. We have pockets between our gum tissue and to the surface and those pockets can expand with the accumulation of tartar, plaque, and bacteria.
How is a gingivectomy done?
The total time for a gingivectomy procedure can be between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the amount of gum tissue to be removed. Patients that need major gum contouring may need multiple visits, which allows the treated areas to heal between surgeries.
To begin, the doctor will inject local anesthetic into the gum tissue being treated. They will then use either a scalpel or a handheld laser to cut away sections of the excess gum tissue. If a scalpel is used, the doctor will need to apply stitches to close the surgical site. A laser cauterizes as it goes so stitches are not necessary. The dentist will then apply a soft putty and bandages over the affected area to protect it while it heals. This wound dressing will come off by itself after a few days but if it does not, your doctor will remove it at your follow up visit.
It really only takes about a week to heal from a gingivectomy. The first few days you may have some bleeding and swelling but a cold compress and a saltwater rinse can be used to help minimize discomfort. Most pain from a gingivectomy can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil. You will want to make sure to stick to soft foods for a few days to avoid irritating your surgery site.
Why might one need a gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy is a simple procedure that can make a big difference in the health and appearance of your smile. If you suffer from gum disease, the pockets between the teeth and gum can cause irritation and inflammation along the gumline. Reshaping the gum tissue can help reduce those pockets and clear up infection.
Cosmetically, patients that have a gummy smile may find it very beneficial to have their gum line re-contoured with a gingivectomy. Whatever reason you feel that a gingivectomy might be the right treatment for you, that is important to discuss your options with your doctor to avoid unnecessary treatment.