Dental Services : Periodontics : Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

Gingivectomy is a surgical periodontal procedure in removing or reshaping gums. A gingivectomy may be done to get rid of diseased gum tissue or pockets between the teeth and gums if it cannot be cured with antibiotics or root planning and scaling. Gingivectomy is usually done before gum disease has damaged the bone supporting your teeth.

At BIDC, only a gum specialists or periodontists is given the privileges to perform the gingivectomy surgical procedure. The periodontist starts by numbing your gums with a local anesthetic and may use a laser or periodontal instruments to remove loose gum tissue.

Gingivoplasty is a procedure used to reshape and re-contour the gum tissue for cosmetic, physiological, or functional purposes. Gingivoplasty is normally done in combination with gingivectomy. Many patients have a gummy smile which is caused by excessive and overgrown gum tissue that can be removed using gingivoplasty for a more regularly shaped and attractive gums.

Gingivectomy

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If you have excessive gums or diseased gums, gingivetomy and gingivoplasty may be treatment options. Ask our professional peridontists today.

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Benefits Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

  • Diseased gum tissue are removed to control periodontal disease, reduce pocket depth and improve surrounding supporting structures around teeth.
  • With better gums, this improves ability to maintain good hygiene and oral health.
  • Existing teeth and bone are maintained and saved from diseased gums.
  • For certain individuals with gummy smiles, removing excess gum tissue and exposing more of your teeth can improve the appearance of their smiles. 
  • Gingivoplasty reshapes gums to improve functions, such as to prevent cavities or improve chewing function.

Procedure for Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

  1. First Evaluation and diagnosis
    • An oral examination and x-rays is done to determine if gingivectomy is really warranted
    • Relevant medical history are recorded. Do ensure that you report to your dentist any problems with any previous dental experience such as bleeding problems, medical conditions or allergies to medications and supplements
  2. Site tooth preparation
    • Local anesthetize is given to “numb up” the tooth, jawbone and surrounding gums
  3. Gingivectomy or gum removal is done
    • Your periodontist uses a scalpel to removes excess or diseased pieces of the gum tissue
    • after removing the gum tissue, the peirodontist puts a temporary putty-like substance over your gum line to protect your gums while it heal
    • Stitch up to close surgical site
  4. Instructions on post care directions given

The major gingivectomy or gingivoplasty, the gum removal or reshaping may be recommended to be done over several visits. This is so that one area is healed before performing surgery on the next area.

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Recovery Expectations

After gum surgery, most individuals do not fee pain. However as the local anesthesia wears off, you may experience some sharp or persistent pain. If so, take the prescribed pain relieve medication.  You are able to go about your regular daily activities, avoiding excessive exertion typed of activities such as exercising or sunbathing.

Your gums may bleed for a few days. Replace any bandages or dressings as advised by your dentist.

Postcare Instructions after Gingivectomy

  • Do not use mouthwash for six hours after oral surgery
  • If mild bleeding occurs, hold cold salt water in the mouth until it warms to body temperature
  • Do not rinse for 12 hours
  • After 12 hours you may rinse with a solution of teaspoonful of salt in a glass of warm water. Antiseptic mouthwash is also recommended to use in the morning and before bedtime
  • Brush your teeth as usual, but do not brush the wound
  • Take only soft, non-spicy and cold foods, if possible, for 2- 3 days
  • Avoid smoking and alcohol
  • Avoid swelling by sleep on the thick pillow during night time.
  • Mild pain can be controlled with pain relieve medications as directed by your dentist
  • Complete taking the course of your prescribed antibiotic medication as directed.
  • Non-absorbed suture should be removed within 7-10 days after the surgery.
  • Contact the clinic immediately or emergency room if:
    – Excessive bleeding other than slight staining occurs.
    – Severe pain is present.
    – Marked swelling occur.
    – suspect any symptons of allergic reaction.
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