A gingivectomy is a dental procedure in which a portion of the gingiva (gum tissue) surrounding a tooth is surgically removed. This procedure is typically performed to address various dental conditions, including gum overgrowth (gingival hypertrophy) caused by factors such as certain medications, poor oral hygiene, or systemic conditions. Hypertrophic gums can interfere with oral health by making it difficult to clean teeth properly, potentially leading to plaque buildup, gum disease, and other oral health complications.
In some cases, gingivectomy is also used to correct gum recession or to reshape the gums for cosmetic reasons, such as improving the appearance of a gummy smile. The procedure involves the removal of excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface or to eliminate pockets of infection caused by gum disease.
A gingivectomy may be performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort during the procedure. Depending on the extent of the gum tissue to be removed, it may take a single session or multiple visits. After the procedure, the gums will be monitored for healing, and proper oral hygiene must be maintained to avoid further complications or infection.
While it is generally a safe and effective procedure, recovery time and aftercare are important. The patient may be advised to avoid certain foods or activities during the healing process, and follow-up visits are typically scheduled to ensure proper healing and prevent recurrence of the condition that necessitated the procedure.
