Gingivectomy / Gingivoplasty

What Are Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty?

Both gingivectomy and gingivoplasty are minor surgical procedures involving the gum tissue, but they serve different purposes:

• Gingivectomy removes diseased or overgrown gum tissue—often due to periodontal disease or inflammation.

• Gingivoplasty reshapes healthy gum tissue for cosmetic or functional improvement, without necessarily removing diseased tissue.

These procedures are often performed together and are typically completed under local anesthesia in the dental office.

When Are These Procedures Recommended?

You may benefit from a gingivectomy or gingivoplasty if you have:

• Gum pockets too deep to clean with brushing or deep cleaning

• Enlarged or overgrown gums from medication or inflammation

• Uneven or irregular gumlines

• A “gummy smile” that hides your teeth

• Gum tissue that prevents access for crown or filling placement

By removing excess tissue or reshaping the gumline, these procedures can restore both oral health and confidence in your smile.

The Difference Between Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

What to Expect During Treatment

1. Consultation and Imaging – We evaluate your gum condition using visual exams and digital imaging.

2. Local Anesthesia – The treatment area is gently numbed to ensure comfort.

3. Surgical Procedure

   • For gingivectomy, diseased or excessive tissue is carefully removed.

   • For gingivoplasty, the gumline is sculpted for a smoother, more natural appearance.

4. Post-Op Care – We provide aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up to monitor healing.

Laser technology may be used in some cases to minimize bleeding and promote faster recovery.

Healing and Aftercare

• Mild soreness or swelling is common and typically lasts a few days

• Soft foods and gentle brushing are recommended while healing

• Avoid smoking, alcohol, or hard foods during recovery

• Rinsing with salt water or a prescribed mouthwash can help healing

Our team will monitor your progress and guide you through a smooth, healthy recovery.

FAQs About Gingivectomy & Gingivoplasty

Q: Are gingivectomy and gingivoplasty painful?
A: No. We use local anesthesia to keep the procedure comfortable, and post-op discomfort is usually mild and manageable.

Q: How long does healing take?
A: Most patients heal within 1–2 weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure. Full healing and gum remodeling can take slightly longer.

Q: Will my smile look different?
A: If the procedure is cosmetic, yes—in a good way! Gingivoplasty can create a more symmetrical, attractive gumline.

Q: Is this a permanent solution?
A: In most cases, yes. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent gum disease from returning.

Q: Is laser gum surgery available?
A: Yes. In some cases, we use soft-tissue lasers for precise tissue removal with reduced bleeding and faster healing.