Gum tissue is an important part of your oral health. It helps protect and support your teeth while also contributing to the overall appearance of your smile. In some cases, however, excess or unhealthy gum tissue can interfere with oral health or create an uneven gum line. At Wyngate Dental of Bethesda, we offer gingivectomy procedures when appropriate to carefully remove and reshape gum tissue.
Gingivectomy: When It Helps and What to Expect
A gingivectomy is a periodontal procedure used to remove excess or unhealthy gum tissue. It may be recommended as part of treatment for gum disease, to reduce certain periodontal pockets, or to address excess gum tissue around the teeth. In some cases, a gingivectomy may also be performed for cosmetic reasons to create a more balanced gumline.
Gum disease can cause pockets to develop between the teeth and gums. These spaces can collect bacteria, plaque, and tartar and become difficult to keep clean. When appropriate, removing and reshaping affected gum tissue can reduce these areas and make it easier to maintain healthier gums.
Before recommending a gingivectomy, our team will carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, and supporting structures. This helps us determine whether the procedure is the right approach for your individual periodontal needs.
What Happens During a Gingivectomy?
Gingivectomies can often be completed during a single appointment, although multiple visits may be recommended when several areas require treatment. Local anesthetic is used to numb the area and help keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
The dentist then carefully removes and reshapes the targeted gum tissue. After treatment, you may experience some temporary tenderness, swelling, or sensitivity while the gums heal. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including recommendations for eating, brushing, and keeping the treatment area clean.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is a gingivectomy painful?
Local anesthetic is used to numb the treatment area, so you should remain comfortable during the procedure. Some tenderness or sensitivity may occur afterward as the gums heal.
How long does a gingivectomy take?
Treatment time depends on the amount of gum tissue being treated and the number of areas involved. Many gingivectomies can be completed during a single appointment.
How long does it take to recover?
Initial healing generally occurs within the first several days, although the gum tissue may continue healing for several weeks. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions can help support a comfortable recovery.
Can a gingivectomy improve the appearance of my smile?
Yes, in certain cases. When excess gum tissue covers a larger portion of the teeth, carefully reshaping the gumline can create more balanced proportions between the teeth and gums.
Learn More About Gingivectomies in Bethesda, MD
If excess or unhealthy gum tissue is affecting your oral health or smile, contact Wyngate Dental of Bethesda to learn about your treatment options. Our team will evaluate your periodontal health and determine whether a gingivectomy is appropriate for your needs.
Call 301-530-8008 to schedule an appointment at our office at 5648 Shields Drive, Bethesda, MD.