Understanding Gingivectomy: From Diagnosis to Healing

If your dentist mentioned a gingivectomy, don’t worry, you’re not the only one Googling it right now.

It might sound a little intimidating, but gingivectomy is actually a simple, common dental procedure used to treat gum disease or reshape the gumline for a healthier, more balanced smile.

In this guide, you’ll find out exactly what a gingivectomy is, why it’s done, what happens during the procedure, and how recovery works so you can feel informed and confident before making any decisions.

What Is a Gingivectomy?

A gingivectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess or diseased gum tissue. It’s often performed to treat gum disease or to reshape the gum line for aesthetic or functional reasons.

Depending on your needs and your dentist’s recommendation, the procedure can be done using a scalpel, laser, or electrosurgery. Each method offers precision and comfort in skilled hands.

Gingivectomy vs. Gingivoplasty: What’s the Difference?

These two terms sound similar, but they serve slightly different purposes:

• Gingivectomy focuses on removing gum tissue, typically when it’s overgrown, inflamed, or infected.

• Gingivoplasty, on the other hand, is all about reshaping the gum line for a smoother, more natural contour.

In many cases, both procedures are done together, removing what's necessary and refining what's left, especially when aesthetics and gum health are both priorities.

Why Would I Need a Gingivectomy?

There are a few key reasons your dentist might recommend a gingivectomy, and they typically fall into two categories: medical and cosmetic. In both cases, the goal is the same: healthier gums, a better-functioning smile, and improved overall confidence.

Medical Reasons

Sometimes, gum tissue becomes a barrier to proper oral health. A gingivectomy may be the right solution if you’re dealing with:

• Deep gum pockets from periodontal disease
  When plaque builds up beneath the gums, it can form pockets that trap bacteria. If deep cleaning isn’t enough, removing infected tissue may be necessary to stop the disease from progressing.

• Persistent gum inflammation or bleeding
  Gum tissue that stays inflamed despite regular care may need to be surgically removed to restore health and comfort.

• Gum overgrowth due to medications
  Some medications—like anti-seizure drugs, calcium channel blockers, or immunosuppressants—can cause the gums to overgrow. Gingivectomy helps reduce the excess tissue and improves oral hygiene.

Cosmetic Reasons

Even when gum tissue is healthy, its appearance can impact how you feel about your smile. Gingivectomy is increasingly used in cosmetic dentistry to refine the look of the gum line:

• Uneven or high gum lines (“gummy smile”)
  If your gums cover more tooth surface than necessary or appear uneven when you smile, gingivectomy can create a more balanced, symmetrical appearance.

• Short or hidden teeth
  Excess gum tissue can make teeth appear shorter than they actually are. By carefully trimming the tissue, we reveal more of the natural tooth structure.

• Smile design and crown lengthening
  For patients undergoing cosmetic treatments or restorations like veneers or crowns, gingivectomy may be part of the smile design process, ensuring the gums properly frame the teeth and complement your facial features.

How Gingivectomy Works: Step-by-Step

Pre-Operative Preparation

Before performing a gingivectomy, your dentist will ensure it’s the right treatment for your specific needs. This includes:

• Comprehensive dental exam
  Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, review your medical history, and take X-rays if needed.

• Gum pocket measurements
  A small instrument is used to measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. This helps assess the severity of any gum disease.

• Initial periodontal therapy
  In many cases, scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning treatment) is completed before surgery to remove bacteria and buildup below the gumline.

• Discussion of expectations and consent
  Your dentist will explain the risks, benefits, and recovery process. You'll have a chance to ask questions and provide informed consent before moving forward.

During the Procedure

The procedure itself is usually quick and comfortable:

• Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area completely. You’ll be awake, but you won’t feel pain, only slight pressure or movement.

• The dentist removes the targeted gum tissue using one of three tools:

• A scalpel (traditional but precise)

• A dental laser (minimally invasive, often reduces bleeding)

• An electrosurgical device (uses electrical current to trim tissue)

• Bleeding is controlled, and the area is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

• In some cases, your dentist may place sutures or a protective dressing over the treated area to aid healing.

How Long Does a Gingivectomy Take?

The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many teeth or areas are being treated. It’s typically performed right in the dental office, and sedation is not usually required, though it can be arranged for patients with anxiety.

Recovery After a Gingivectomy

Healing after a gingivectomy is generally smooth, especially when you follow your dentist’s instructions. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, and the benefits are well worth the short recovery time.

Healing Timeline:

• Discomfort is typically mild and lasts only a few days. It may feel like tenderness or soreness around the treated gums.

• Full healing usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the size of the area treated and your body’s natural healing response.

Your dentist may schedule a follow-up visit to check on your progress and remove any dressings or sutures if used.

Aftercare Tips

To help your gums heal properly and reduce the risk of infection, here’s what we recommend:

• Avoid brushing the treated area for the first 24 hours. After that, brush gently around the site using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash like chlorhexidine as prescribed. This helps prevent infection and keeps the area clean.

• Stick to soft, cool foods for the first few days: think yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, or cold soups. Avoid anything spicy, crunchy, or acidic that could irritate the gums.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage soreness, if needed. Always follow dosage guidelines.

What’s Normal and What’s Not

It's common to notice:

• Slight bleeding, especially within the first 24–48 hours

• Mild swelling or sensitivity near the treated area

These symptoms should gradually improve each day.

However, contact your dentist right away if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening pain

• Pus or signs of infection

• Significant swelling that doesn’t go down

• Heavy bleeding beyond the first day

How to Know If You’re a Good Candidate

Gingivectomy is a safe and effective procedure, but like any dental treatment, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Your dentist will evaluate your gum health, medical history, and personal goals to determine if it’s the right option for you.

You May Be a Good Candidate If:

• ✅ You have chronic gingivitis or gum disease that hasn’t improved with professional cleanings or at-home care

• ✅ You’ve developed gum overgrowth due to medication, such as anti-seizure drugs, immunosuppressants, or calcium channel blockers

• ✅ You’re interested in cosmetic gum contouring to improve your smile aesthetics, especially if you have a gummy smile or uneven gum line

• ✅ You’re in generally good health and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene habits

Who May Not Be a Fit (At Least for Now):

• ❌ Individuals with poor oral hygiene or active, uncontrolled gum infections may need to improve hygiene practices before surgery is considered

• ❌ People with uncontrolled diabetes or compromised immune systems may be at higher risk for complications or delayed healing

• ❌ Smokers, especially those who smoke heavily, may experience slower healing and reduced success from the procedure

That said, these aren’t hard barriers. At Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue we will help determine whether gingivectomy is appropriate now or if it might be part of a future care plan once certain health factors are addressed.

Key Takeaways: Is Gingivectomy Right for You?

• Gingivectomy is a safe and effective solution for both medical and cosmetic gum concerns.

• It helps treat deep gum pockets, chronic inflammation, and drug-induced gum overgrowth.

• The procedure can also reshape your gum line to create a more balanced, confident smile.

• With proper oral hygiene and follow-up care, gingivectomy offers long-lasting oral health benefits.

• Healing is typically quick: most people recover fully within 1 to 2 weeks.

Talk to a Dentist You Trust

If you’re dealing with persistent gum issues, an uneven smile, or just want to understand your options, we’re here to help.

Park Slope Dentistry Seventh Avenue offers expert, compassionate care in the heart of Park Slope.
Schedule a consultation today: we’ll walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and help you decide if gingivectomy is the right choice for your smile and health.

Your gums do more than protect your teeth, they frame your confidence. Let’s keep them healthy, together.

Gingivectomy FAQ