Gingivectomy
Gum surgery that removes excess or damaged tissue: it is used to treat periodontal pockets and also to correct a gummy smile.
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure carried out by the periodontist in which part of the gum is trimmed away.
The damaged part of the gum tissue is removed in order to reduce or completely eliminate the periodontal pocket formed by the build-up of bacterial plaque.
It is indicated for the treatment of periodontal disease . It is a very useful technique for resolving all kinds of gum-related problems
It is usually performed on patients with periodontal disease, although in many cases this type of procedure is carried out for aesthetic reasons
PROCEDURE AND STAGES
A gingivectomy is performed under local anaesthetic and causes the patient no pain. Once the area is numb, these are the steps that follow:
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Measuring the depth of the periodontal pocket with forceps.
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Marking the line where the incision will be made using a periodontal probe.
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Making the incision along the marked line with a scalpel, starting from the apical side up to the marked points.
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Removing the excess tissue with a scalpel.
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Smoothing the gum tissue with a rotary instrument.
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Protecting the treated area with a surgical dressing to prevent post-operative problems.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gingivectomy?
It is the removal of the excess gum covering the tooth, under local anaesthetic. It is indicated when there is overgrowth of the gum âsometimes caused by medicationâ, periodontal pockets that cannot be cleaned properly, or when too much gum shows when smiling.
Does it hurt and how long does it take to heal?
You feel no pain during the procedure because of the anaesthetic; afterwards discomfort and sensitivity for a few days are normal. The gum heals within one or two weeks, with a soft diet at first and without brushing the area hard until you are told to.
Will the gum grow back?
If the cause is corrected âhygiene, plaque control, adjusting the medication with your doctor where appropriateâ, the result is maintained. If the cause persists, the overgrowth can return, and that is why follow-up is part of the treatment.
How many days does a gingivectomy take to heal?
The main discomfort lasts two or three days and the gum heals within one or two weeks, although the final appearance takes a little longer to settle. During those days it is advisable to eat a soft diet, avoid brushing the area hard and follow the mouthwash instructions you are given.
What are the drawbacks of a gingivectomy?
Removing gum tissue can leave more of the root surface exposed and cause sensitivity to cold, and if the cause of the overgrowth is not corrected, the gum may grow back. That is why it is never done in isolation: it goes hand in hand with plaque control and, where appropriate, with reviewing the medication involved with your doctor.
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Dr Manuel DĂaz Cano ·