Gum Disease
It is estimated that periodontal disease impacts close to half of all adults over 30 years old in the United States. Periodontal or gum disease results in the inflammation of tissues which support and secure the teeth in place. One of the only procedures which can be used to reverse the negative effects of gum disease is a gingivectomy.
Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy treats gum disease if scaling and root planing are not effective. The procedure is able to effectively restore the gums and ensure the teeth receive necessary support to remain healthy.
Crown lengthening is another term used to describe a gingivectomy. The procedure is a minimally invasive outpatient oral surgery. Excess, overgrown gums are removed to help restore the patient’s oral health and improve the appearance of their smile. In most cases, a gingivectomy is performed on adult patients.
Cosmetic Improvements
A gingivectomy is an effective treatment used to restore the appearance of a patient’s smile. It is possible for the gums to become bigger and have overgrowth when patients take certain medications or experience hormonal changes related to pregnancy. Patients may also want to improve the appearance of their gummy smile, which makes the teeth appear shorter than they actually are.
In many cases, a gingivectomy is less invasive and more cost-effective compared to other aesthetic procedures used to modify the appearance of the gums. When the endodontist completes the procedure with a laser, the results are virtually immediate.
Candidates for a Gingivectomy
Below are common things which result in a dentist suggesting patients receive a gingivectomy. Gum recession is often caused by the following conditions:
- Gum injury
- Overgrowth of bacteria
- Gum disease
- Natural aging
A gingivectomy is often recommended for patients with gum disease. The procedure can be an effective solution for preventing additional damage. In addition, it is easier to practice good oral hygiene following the procedure. Patients with gum disease often have pockets under the gums at the base of the teeth which can quickly accumulate things such as calculus, tartar, bacteria, and plaque.
Procedure Summary
When an infection or gum disease is discovered during a routine dental visit, the dentist may recommend the patient undergo a gingivectomy. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour. The duration of the procedure will vary based on how much gum tissue needs to be removed and the number of teeth which are receiving treatment.
In minor cases where a single tooth or few teeth are being treated, one appointment will typically be sufficient. In more severe cases, the patient may need to make multiple visits for treatment.
Below is a summary of the procedure:
- The dental professional will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area which is receiving treatment
- A specialized laser or scalpel is then used to slowly cut away small sections of the gums
- A suction tool is used to remove saliva from the mouth during the procedure
- Following the removal of gum tissue, a laser tool may be used to vaporize excess tissue and sculpt the gums
- A soft putty material is applied over the site to protect the gums while the heal
Reach out to the office to schedule an appointment with the team. We can evaluate your mouth to determine if you may need a gingivectomy to restore the appearance and health of your gums.