What Is a Gingivectomy and When Is It Necessary?
A gingivectomy is a procedure in which a section of the gums is removed from one or more teeth in the mouth. At Forney Family Dentistry & Orthodontics in Forney, TX, we often recommend this procedure for patients whose gums are infected or have grown too long due to periodontal disease. This procedure helps improve the health of the gums and the mouth as a whole.
As a result of this disease, the tissues surrounding the teeth can become inflamed and pull away from the teeth, forming a pocket where bacteria can collect and cause further harm. In cases like this, the removal of the gums is often suggested as part of a periodontal treatment plan to help prevent the advancement of the disease.
In some cases, a gingivectomy is used to treat excessive gum tissue, which can result from a variety of factors, such as gum inflammation, certain medications, or genetics. Excessive gum tissue can make it difficult to clean teeth properly and affect the aesthetics of the patient’s smile.
Another associated procedure is gingivoplasty, which reshapes the gums rather than removing a portion of them. Even though gingivoplasty involves reshaping, in a gingivectomy, the gums are completely removed to improve their condition and reduce infection.
How Gingivectomy Treatment Is Performed
Gingivectomy procedures are performed in our Forney practice using a surgical scalpel, though in some cases a low-frequency dental laser may be used. The aim of this procedure is to carefully remove the affected or excess gum tissue, leaving as much healthy tissue as possible.
During this procedure, the affected gum tissue is carefully trimmed and removed. Once the required amount of gum tissue is removed, the healthy tissues are placed in their positions and stitched in place with small stitches. The area is then cleaned to ensure that all bacteria are removed.
A local anesthetic is used to ensure that the patient is comfortable during the procedure. The patient’s discomfort is usually mild, and the healing process takes less than a month. During this period, the gums tend to adapt to the new shape and adhere firmly to the teeth.
A gingivectomy is an important treatment option for gum problems in Forney. This procedure helps reduce and treat gum infections and remove bacteria that accumulate in deep pockets.
If you struggle with overgrown gum tissue or gum disease, a gingivectomy might be the solution to restoring your oral health. Give us a call or email us to schedule an appointment so Dr. Morrison can determine the best option for you.
