Gingivectomy

Excessive gum volume may partially cover the crowns of the teeth, causing them to appear shorter and the smile — less harmonious. Tissue overgrowth may also make tooth cleaning more difficult, contribute to plaque accumulation, and sustain the inflammatory process. In such cases, the dentist may recommend gingivectomy.

At «Oxford Medical», the procedure is performed by experienced dentists who work according to modern protocols. To schedule a consultation, call the number listed on the website or use the online appointment form.

Gingivectomy — is a dental operation during which the doctor removes part of the overgrown gum tissue around one or more teeth. The procedure makes it possible to expose a larger part of the tooth crown and form a natural and even contour. The scope of the intervention is determined individually after an examination.

If the main goal is to model the shape and align the gum line, the dentist may recommend gingivoplasty. Often, both procedures are combined: first, the gums are excised, and then their new contour is formed.

In some cases, gingivectomy may be performed before braces placement if the overgrown gums significantly cover the crown portion of the teeth. The dentist and orthodontist determine the need for the procedure after an examination.

Doctors at «Oxford Medical» note: an increase in gum volume may be associated with hereditary characteristics, the use of certain medications, hormonal changes, or prolonged inflammation. The dentist determines the cause during the examination, since further treatment tactics depend on it.

Gingivectomy is not performed or is postponed in the presence of:

• acute gum inflammation;

• infectious diseases of the oral cavity;

• exacerbation of chronic diseases;

• uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;

• blood clotting disorders;

• acute infectious diseases.

In the presence of inflammatory gum diseases, in particular gingivitis, appropriate treatment is performed first. After the inflammation has been eliminated, the dentist reassesses the condition of the tissues and determines whether surgery is necessary.

Doctors at «Oxford Medical» recommend informing the dentist in advance about taking medications that affect blood clotting. This is necessary to assess the risk of bleeding and safely plan the operation. You must not discontinue medications or change their administration regimen on your own.

Before the procedure, the dentist examines the oral cavity, assesses the condition of the gums, and determines the boundaries of the correction. If there are hard dental deposits or signs of inflammation, tartar removal and appropriate treatment may first be recommended. If indicated, an X-ray examination is also performed to assess the condition of the bone tissue around the teeth and plan the intervention.

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The dentist marks the future gum line, removes the gums, and forms a new contour in accordance with the position of the tooth crowns.

After completing the correction, the doctor stops the bleeding and treats the surgical area. If necessary, the doctor places sutures, although they may not be required when the scope of the intervention is small.

The duration of the procedure depends on the number of teeth and the scope of the correction. After the operation, the dentist provides recommendations on oral care and schedules a follow-up examination.

After the gums have completely healed, the doctor evaluates the result. If necessary, the next stage may be artistic tooth restoration, prosthetics, or other procedures aimed at restoring the shape, proportions, aesthetics, and health of the teeth.

In the first days after the procedure, moderate pain, slight bleeding, gum swelling, and increased tooth sensitivity are possible. This is a normal tissue response to surgical intervention, which gradually passes during the healing process.

Complications after gingivectomy occur rarely. At «Oxford Medical», the procedure is performed by experienced dentists who accurately determine the necessary scope of correction, comply with sterility requirements, and monitor the condition of the gums after the operation. This makes it possible to minimize risks, but the patient’s compliance with postoperative care recommendations is also important.

The development of complications may be associated with individual healing characteristics, concomitant diseases, or failure to follow the doctor’s recommendations. In such cases, gingivectomy may have the following consequences:

• prolonged or recurrent bleeding;

• infection of the postoperative area;

• delayed wound healing;

• persistent increased tooth sensitivity due to exposure of their necks;

• an uneven gum contour that may require additional correction.

Doctors at «Oxford Medical» recommend consulting a dentist if the pain or swelling increases, the bleeding does not stop, purulent discharge appears, there is an unpleasant odor from the mouth, or the body temperature rises. Such symptoms may indicate the development of complications and require an examination.

Proper care after gum trimming promotes rapid tissue healing, reduces the risk of complications, and helps achieve a predictable treatment result. The dentist provides detailed recommendations taking into account the scope of the intervention and the patient’s individual characteristics.

After the operation, it is usually recommended to:

• avoid hard, spicy, and excessively hot food for several days;

• brush the teeth with a soft toothbrush without injuring the surgical area;

• use antiseptic agents or mouth rinses prescribed by the doctor;

• refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol until the tissues have completely healed;

• attend a follow-up examination at the time specified by the dentist.

The recovery period depends on the scope of the operation, the condition of the tissues, and compliance with the dentist’s recommendations.

The cost of the procedure depends on the number of teeth on which the correction is performed and the required scope of the intervention. You can find out what the price of gingivectomy is here. The dentist will guide you more precisely regarding the scope of the procedure and its cost after conducting an examination and drawing up an individual treatment plan. To schedule a consultation with a dentist, call the contact center or use the online appointment form on the website.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

Sources:

• US National Library of Medicine

• European Federation of Periodontology

• The Journal of the American Dental Association