Do you have a “gummy smile” that steals the show everywhere you go? Or red, swollen gums that cause you a lot of pain? A gingivectomy procedure might be just the thing you need to steal back your confidence. We explain exactly what a gingivectomy is, what its benefits are, and how it can help you feel more confident and comfortable.
What Is a Gingivectomy Procedure?
A gingivectomy is a dental surgery where any excess, malpositioned, or diseased gum tissue is removed. It is most often used in our office to gain access below the gumline to healthy tooth structure when we are trying to preserve a tooth. In some cases it can be used to treat gingivitis, and it can also correct cosmetic issues like a “gummy” smile. However, do not confuse a gingivectomy with other procedures, like scaling and planing, which is a treatment for gum disease.
The Gingivectomy Procedure: What to Expect
There are two main types of gingivectomies that dentists perform. During a standard gingivectomy, a dentist would apply a local anesthetic to numb the area and use a scalpel to cut away any excess gum tissue. Then, they would use stitches to close the incisions and slow your bleeding.
However, at Copper Creek Dental, we use the Solea dental laser to perform gingivectomies. The laser cauterizes and seals the gum tissue as it cuts, so there is no need for sutures. And because the laser pulses are so quick, they do not activate the pain receptors in your brain, so it is less likely that anything more than topical numbing gel will be needed.
After a laser gingectomy, you will be able to go home as soon as the procedure is over. Your gums should heal within a week. You will need to keep the surgical site clean, take any prescribed medications, use an icepack to relieve swelling, and stick to a soft food diet for one week. Properly following homecare instructions will help healing go smoothly.
The Benefits of a Gingivectomy Include:
- Improved gum health
- Better oral hygiene
- No more “gummy smile”-Brighter, whiter smile
- Fewer harmful oral bacteria
- Shallower periodontal pockets
- More effective brushing and flossing
How Do You Know if You Need a Gingivectomy?
Our dentists will determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a gingivectomy during your initial consultation. Some signs that you may need a gingivectomy include:
- Persistent gum inflammation or infection
- Excessive gum tissue causing a “gummy” smile
- Deep pockets between the gums and teeth that trap bacteria
- Difficulty maintaining oral hygiene due to overgrown gums
If you experience bleeding, pain or swelling in your gums, or if a dentist has previously recommended gum surgery, it is important that you contact us right away for an appointment to check on the progression of your gum disease.
Is a Gingivectomy Right for You?
Now that you know what a gingivectomy procedure involves, it is time to decide if this procedure is right for you. Whether you’re battling gum disease or just want to feel more confident in your smile, a gingivectomy could be your next best step. Contact us to schedule a consultation to find out if it’s the right solution for your oral health concerns.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (05/16/2025) Photo by Ozkan Guner on Unsplash