Gingivectomy is a procedure where the gum tissue is removed through a surgical procedure. It can be used to treat gingivitis. Gingivectomy also removes extra gum tissues for cosmetic purposes such as improving one’s smile. Gingivectomy can be recommended if one has gum recession from gum injury, bacterial infection, gum diseases, and aging. These procedures prevent further gum damage and thus easier cleaning.
How can Gingivectomy be Treated?
A dentist can recommend a gingivectomy if they notice an infection or gum disease during a regular dental check-up and want to stop it. Some of the ways it can be treated include elective gingivectomy if it is done for cosmetic reasons, optional, and conducted to improve one’s smile. A dentist does not highly recommend it unless the risks involved are low. One should consult their dentist before it is undertaken. This process takes 30-70 minutes according to the tissue being removed. Minor procedures which involve a single tooth can take one visit; if the tissue being removed is a lot, that might take several visits.
How the Procedure is Conducted
A dentist injects a local anesthetic into the gums, which numb the area this reduces discomfort, which can be experienced during the process, a scalpel or a laser is used to cut away pieces of the gum tissue this process is called soft tissue incision, the dentist keeps a suction tool in the mouth to remove the excess saliva once the tissue has been cut with the use of a laser which helps in vaporizing the remaining tissues and reshapes the gum line.
A soft putty-like substance is placed on the area bandages are also set. This protects the gum while the healing process is taking place. After the procedure, the dentist administers antibiotics which help in avoiding infection.
