What Is a Gingivectomy?

Your teeth and lips are the stars of your beautiful smile, but your gums are the crucial supporting actors. 

Unfortunately, many people overlook the importance of proper gum care until infections or cosmetic concerns arise. 

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants, our board-certified periodontists, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith, and our dental team specialize in gingivectomy procedures to help you address your gum-related concerns.

Here’s a handy guide on gingivectomy, what it treats, and how to know when this procedure might be right for you. Whether you’re managing gum disease or you’ve been considering cosmetic gum reshaping, we can help.

Understanding gingivectomy

A gingivectomy is a dental procedure in which we remove a portion of your gum tissue. We often use this treatment to address medical or cosmetic concerns, ranging from managing gum disease to creating a more balanced and appealing smile.

While gum removal might sound uncomfortable, modern dental laser therapy makes gingivectomy minimally invasive and more comfortable than you might expect.

What conditions does a gingivectomy treat?

A gingivectomy is a multitasking procedure that can address several oral health needs, including:

Severe gingivitis or periodontal disease

Gum disease can cause inflammation, swelling, and infections. Gingivectomy removes infected tissue, reducing your risk of further gum and bone damage.

Excess gum tissue

Overgrown gum tissue can result from certain medications, genetic factors, or other underlying issues. This condition, known as gingival hyperplasia, can make oral hygiene challenging and increase your risk of gum disease.

A gummy smile

If your teeth appear small or you show too much gum when you smile, a gingivectomy can remove the excess tissue and visibly lengthen the tooth crowns to create a more proportionate appearance.

Preparing for dental procedures

Gingivectomy can give dentists better access to your teeth by exposing more enamel, making it easier to place veneers or perform restorative procedures.

If you’re unsure whether you require a gingivectomy, call us. We can walk you through your options.

Types of gingivectomy

There are two main methods for performing a gingivectomy, each suited to different situations:

Scalpel-based gingivectomy

This traditional method relies on the use of surgical tools to remove tissue. While effective, it may have a slightly longer healing time compared with newer techniques.

Laser gingivectomy

At St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants, we use laser technology because it’s more precise and has several advantages. This method cauterizes as it works, reducing bleeding, swelling, and recovery time. Many of our patients opt for laser treatment because it’s quicker and more comfortable.

What to expect during and after the procedure

The details of your gingivectomy depend on your individual needs, but here’s a general overview of what to expect.

During the procedure 

We typically perform gingivectomies under local anesthesia, so you feel comfortable throughout the treatment. With our laser procedure, you can expect minimal discomfort, as the laser gently removes or reshapes gum tissue while sealing the area.

After the procedure 

The recovery process is relatively quick, especially with laser gingivectomy. Most patients can return to their regular activities within a day or two. 

We advise sticking to soft foods, avoiding hot beverages, and following our oral hygiene instructions to promote healing. 

Be sure to attend your follow-up appointments so we can monitor your recovery and address any concerns.

When should you consider a gingivectomy?

You might benefit from a gingivectomy if you have:

• Chronic gum inflammation or pain that doesn’t respond to treatment
• Gum tissue overgrowth that makes brushing or flossing difficult
• Self-consciousness about a gummy smile
• Issues with dental crowns or restorations due to a lack of enamel exposure

During your consultation, we can assess your situation and recommend the most suitable solution.

If you’re dealing with gum disease or exploring ways to enhance your smile, a gingivectomy could be an excellent option for you. 

Call us at St. Tammany Periodontics & Implants in Covington or Slidell, Louisiana, or request an appointment online to learn more about gingivectomy and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.