There are a number of general, advanced and cosmetic dental treatments available which most people are aware of and have an understanding of how they work and what they are used to treat such as veneers, tooth whitening, dental implants and Invisalign.

However, a gingivectomy is a procedure that not many people are aware of and although it isn’t something that is suitable or necessary for most, for patients who do require and go through the procedure, there are a number of functional and aesthetic benefits.

Here we provide the answers to all your need-to-know questions about gingivectomies.

What is a gingivectomy?

A gingivectomy is a procedure that involves surgically removing a part of the gum tissue (also known as gingiva). It was originally used to treat gum disease but is also becoming used more commonly to correct overgrown gingiva as well as a number of other conditions.

How is the procedure performed?

Gingivectomy surgery is not painful and can often be performed in a single appointment under local anaesthetic or sedation. It is completed one of two ways, using a surgical scalpel or a laser to cut through the gums and remove the excess or target tissues. The remaining tissue is then reattached around the teeth, stitched and cleaned. A surgical compress is applied where it will stay for around a week on the surface of the gingivectomy site to keep the area free from bacteria. Recovery takes around 2-4 weeks for healing to complete.

Who is a gingivectomy suitable for?

Here are some of the most common reasons that dentists recommend patients undergo a gingivectomy:

• They have excess gum tissue which causes them to have a ‘gummy’ smile
• Gaps or pockets have formed between their teeth and gums
• Their gum tissue affects how they speak or eat
• They require treatment for severe gingivitis
• The gums are receding
• They are suffering from periodontitis
• There is an injury to the gums

Differences between a Gingivectomy and a Gingivoplasty

A Gingivoplasty and a Gingivoplasty are two different procedures which are sometimes used interchangeably due to the fact they both involve the removal of gum tissue; however, they are two different procedures.

Gingivectomy – Covers the surgical removal of gum tissue for either medical or cosmetic reasons.

Gingivoplasty – This is act of reshaping the gum tissues around the teeth to change the appearance of the gums, make them appear more natural, correct asymmetry and treat gum recession.

What are the benefits of a gingivectomy?

There has been a steady increase in the popularity of Gingivectomy surgery due to the many benefits that it can offer patients, such as;

• It is a minimally-invasive and safe procedure
• Can produce a more aesthetically pleasing smile
• Helps to reduce tooth sensitivity
• Delivers long-lasting results
• Removes dead tissue
• Can prevent worsening periodontitis
• Creates a straighter, more proportional and symmetrical gumline