What is a gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is a type of surgery that involves removing gum tissue at the gum margin.

A common reason to have this procedure is to treat severe gingivitis, where bacteria infiltrate the gum tissue and cause inflammation.

However, some people may choose to have a gingivectomy for cosmetic reasons. A gingivectomy can change the appearance of the gums and smile.

Gingivoplasty vs. gingivectomy

A gingivectomy is similar to another procedure called a gingivoplasty. Sometimes, people have these procedures at the same time.

• Gingivectomy: This is the removal of diseased gum tissue. A person may have it done for medical purposes or osmetic reasons.
• Gingivoplasty: This involves shaping healthy gum tissue, often to change the appearance of the gums, improve a person’s smile, or prevent cavities.

There are two main types of gingivectomy: scalpel and laser.

Scalpel

A scalpel gingivectomy is the most traditional and commonly used procedure.

It involves cutting through the tissue with a scalpel to remove the diseased tissue.

Although it is the most popular option for this procedure, it can be challenging because the surgeons need to make small incisions deep in the tissue.

Pros

• This technique is more widespread, and more dentists can perform it.
• It avoids lateral tissue damage.

Cons

• It can be less precise than a laser gingivectomy.
• Post-procedural bleeding may occur.

Laser

A laser gingivectomy is better at removing gingival tissue but requires more precision and skill to ensure no damage occurs.

With advancing technologies, laser gingivectomies are becoming more commonplace. However, they require specialized equipment and additional training, so not every dentist’s office or surgeon will offer them.

Pros

• The laser cauterizes the tissue; therefore, most people do not require sutures.
• According to one study, healing is often fasterTrusted Source with this technique.
• Lasers tend to be more precise than scalpels.
• People taking blood thinners can have this type because the cauterization stops any bleeding.

Cons

• It is typically more expensive.
• Some insurance companies do not cover laser gingivectomies.
• The procedure requires extra training and equipment, so not all dentists can perform them.

Before having a gingivectomy, a person must prepare by eating a nutritious diet and getting plenty of rest before the procedure.

The dental surgeon will also advise people to quit smoking where possible or at least refrain from smoking in the months before their procedure, avoid drinking alcohol, and stop taking any medications that may inhibit healing.

People should brush and floss their teeth daily to remove the bacteria that cause gum disease.

A laser gingivectomy can take around 16 minutes, but a scalpel gingivectomy may take longer. Times will vary depending on the type and the amount of tissue involved.

If the dentist needs to remove a lot of gum tissue, they may space the procedure over several sessions, allowing the gums to heal between appointments.

A person may undergo a gingivectomy procedure as an outpatient or inpatient.

Surgeons typically only use local anesthesia when performing a gingivectomy so people can drive themselves home after their procedure.

It is important to change the dressings if a healthcare professional advises it. People should avoid drinking warm or hot beverages after surgery and only eat soft foods for about a week after surgery.