Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty

All about gingivectomy: Before and after the procedure

• What is Gingivectomy?
• Who Should Consider Having a Gingivectomy?
• What is Periodontal Disease?
• Why Should You Treat Gum Disease?
• When would you need a gingivectomy or gingivoplasty?
• Elective gingivectomy
• Types of gingivectomy
• What to Expect During the Procedure
• This is how the process goes:
• How Does Gingivectomy Using a Scalpel and a Laser Compare?
• Healing time
• Right After Surgery:
• The Upcoming Days:
• Long-Term:
• When to Visit the Dentist After a Gingivectomy?
• What is the Difference Between Gingivectomy & Gingivoplasty?
• Gingivectomy vs Gingivoplasty

GINGIVECTOMY

• Is the surgical removal of gingiva (i.e., gum tissue). A gingivectomy is necessary when the gums have pulled away from the teeth creating deep pockets. The pockets make it hard to clean away plaque and calculus. Gingivectomy is usually done before gum disease has damaged the bone supporting the teeth.
• The procedure involves removing and reshaping loose, diseased gum tissue to get rid of pockets between the teeth and gums. By removing the pocket walls, gingivectomy provides visibility and accessibility to remove calculus and thoroughly smooth the tooth roots.
• This creates a favorable environment for gingival healing and restoration of the gingival contour. Although gingivectomy was initially developed to treat periodontal disease, it is now a common?Cosmetic Surgery, also. It is used to remove overgrown gum tissue and improve the appearance of the gums.

GINGIVOPLASTY?

• Is the surgical reshaping of gum tissue around the teeth. It is often is done simply to make gums look better. They may have an unusual shape or may not be formed normally. The causes can include a person's genes, disease, or trauma. Gingivoplasty reshapes the gums to make them look more natural. It often is done alone but can be done during or after a gingivectomy. Gingivoplasty also can be done along with a gum graft. This type of surgery adds tissue to the gum line.

What Is Gingivectomy?

• Gingivectomy is a micro-surgical procedure or in other words, a non-invasive practice, that can modify the gums. Gum tissue, or gingiva, is the main target of the practice and your doctor can surgically remove it during a gingivectomy. Conditions like gingivitis which is the inflammation of the gums and other disorders can go away with gingivectomy.
• Additionally, it is utilized to modify smiles by removing excess gum tissue for aesthetic purposes.
• Continue reading to find out more about the procedure’s steps, potential costs, and post-procedure care.

What is Periodontal Disease?

• Periodontal disease is serious as it affects not only your gums but also the bone that holds your root. It begins with gingivitis and proceeds to a bacterial infection that can lead to tooth loss and gum recession. Symptoms can include:

1. Bleeding gums
2. Bone loss that is detected with an x-ray
3. Loose teeth
4. Gum recession
5. Pus or clear fluid from the gums and the gum line

• If gingivitis is allowed to progress, plaque and calculus can spread into the natural pocket between the ridge of the gum line and the tooth's enamel leading to inflammation. The inflammation widens the slim gaps that occur naturally between the tooth and gum.
• This widening allows more bacteria to aggravate the sensitive tissue along the root's outer surface, creating severe damage if left unchecked. The only way progress can be stopped is to prescribe a gingivectomy. In some cases, a gingivoplasty is used to reshape the gumline to assist in the treatment

Who Should Consider Having a Gingivectomy?

• There are certain health conditions that require a gingivectomy and these include receding gums. This is a condition where your gum tissue pulls away from your teeth exposing the root. Gum recession can come from:

1. Aging gum conditions, such as gingivitis, bacterial infections, and gum damage
2. Smoking
3. Genetics

• Your dentist may recommend a gingivectomy if you have gum disease in order to stop further gum damage. This also ensures that your oral health does not worsen.

When would you need a Gingivectomy gingivoplasty are similar procedures that both involve the surgical removal of gum tissue. They can be used independently or in conjunction, to treat both medical and cosmetic problems.?

• This depends on which procedure is being performed. The most common reason to get a gingivectomy is in response to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the advanced form of gingivitis or gum disease. As the disease progresses, the plaque and calculus-causing bacteria move down the tooth and under the gum line. This creates a “pocket” between the gum and the tooth. Left unchecked, the infection will even start to deteriorate bone tissue.
• A gingivectomy is performed to remove the diseased gum tissue. This helps stem the development of the disease and allows the gum to heal properly. You might also require a gingivectomy following a tooth extraction. The gum tissue around the extracted tooth can become infected, diseased, or start to die due to a loss of blood supply. A gingivectomy will remove this tissue to maintain optimal health. A gingivectomy can also be used to reshape the gum for a cosmetically pleasing result.
• The primary use of a gingivoplasty is to cosmetically reshape the gum line. Many people have oddly shaped or excessive gum. While this doesn’t pose much of a health concern, it can give the appearance of smaller or misshapen teeth. Swollen papillae (the gum tissue between the teeth) is another example of misshapen gum tissue. This can present something of an infection risk, as it is more difficult to clean. In these cases, a gingivoplasty is used to reshape the gum line around the tooth to present a more esthetically pleasing smile. Gum is removed and reshaped from around the top of the teeth to make them appear longer and more regularly shaped.
• Gingivoplasty doesn’t just involve removing gum tissues. It can be used in conjunction with a gum graft to add gum tissue when necessary. This might be the case during a gingivectomy, where diseased gum tissue needs to be replaced to restore esthetics.

Elective gingivectomy

• Cosmetic gingivectomy is completely optional. Many dentists will not advise it unless the dangers are minimal or if the dentist is a specialist in cosmetic dentistry.
• Before undergoing this treatment, consult a dentist to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of an elective gingivectomy.

Types of gingivectomy

There are?two main?types of gingivectomy: scalpel and laser.

Scalpel

• A scalpel gingivectomy is a most traditional and commonly used procedure.
• It involves cutting through the tissue with a scalpel to remove the diseased tissue.
• Although it is the most popular option for this procedure, it can be challenging because the surgeons need to make small incisions deep in the tissue.

Pros

• This technique is more widespread, and more dentists can perform it.
• It?avoids?lateral tissue damage.

Cons

• It can be less precise than a laser gingivectomy.
• Post-procedural bleeding may occur.

Laser

• A laser gingivectomy is better at removing gingival tissue but requires more precision and skill to ensure no damage occurs.
• With advancing technologies, laser gingivectomies are becoming more commonplace. However, they require specialized equipment and additional training, so not every dentist’s office or surgeon will offer them.

Pros

• The laser cauterizes the tissue; therefore, most people do not require sutures.
• According to one study, healing is often?fasterTrusted Source
• ?with this technique.
• Lasers tend to be more precise than scalpels.
• People taking blood thinners can have this type because the cauterization stops any bleeding.

Cons

• It is typically more expensive.
• Some insurance companies do not cover laser gingivectomies.
• The procedure requires extra training and equipment, so not all dentists can perform them.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• Depending on how much gum tissue your dentist removes, a gingivectomy might take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
• Minor operations involving one or more teeth may likely only require one appointment. Major gum contouring or removal may need numerous visits, particularly if your dentist wishes to wait until one area has healed before moving on to the next.

This is how the process goes:

• To numb the area, your dentist injects a local anesthetic into the gums.
• They then target and remove gum tissue using either a laser or a scalpel. This achieves a small soft tissue incision.
• Your dentist will probably retain a suction instrument in your mouth throughout the process to remove the extra saliva.
• Your dentist will probably use a laser tool to vaporize any remaining tissue and sculpt the gumline once they remove the unwanted tissue.
• To protect your gums while they heal, your dentist applies bandages and a soft putty-like substance to the area.

How Does Gingivectomy Using a Scalpel and a Laser Compare?

• Due to ongoing advancements in laser technology, laser gingivectomies are becoming more and more popular. Due to the heat generated by the laser, lasers are also more accurate, enable quicker healing and cauterization, and reduce the danger of infection from contaminated metal equipment.
• Because laser operations are more expensive and complicated than scalpel procedures, your dentist can suggest a scalpel gingivectomy if they lack the necessary skills or equipment.
• A scalpel gingivectomy might be more affordable if you have health insurance because your plan might not cover laser procedures. Before arranging a gingivectomy, it’s a good idea to call your insurance company to learn more about your benefits.

Healing time

• Gingivectomy recovery is often quick. Here is what to anticipate.

Right After Surgery:

• Your dentist and team will allow you to return home immediately after the procedure since it is not an invasive procedure. You can typically drive yourself home because your dentist will most likely simply use a local anesthetic.
• Even while you might not experience pain right away, it could become more intense or persistent when the numbing wears off a few hours after the treatment. You can manage the pain with over-the-counter painkillers that your dentist will prescribe for you.
• For a few days, your gums may probably bleed as well. Until bleeding stops or until your dentist says you can expose your gums again, change any bandages or dressings.
• Before sending you home, your dentist or a dental assistant should instruct you on how to change your bandages or dressings. Call their office to ask for instructions if they didn’t explain it or if you have questions regarding the directions.

The Upcoming Days:

• Your jaw may be hurting. To avoid irritating or harming your gums as they heal, your dentist probably advises you to only eat soft foods.
• To relieve any discomfort or irritability that moves into your mouth, try putting a cool compress on your cheeks.
• To keep the area free of bacteria or other irritating materials, use a warm saltwater rinse or saline solution. Avoid using mouthwash or other antiseptic liquids.
• Antibiotics may also be necessary during your recovery to prevent gum infections.

Long-Term:

• Any discomfort will go away after approximately a week. To ensure that the area is healing properly and that you may resume a normal diet, visit your dentist once more.
• Last but not least, look after your teeth. Reduce your intake of foods high in sugar, avoid smoking, and brush and floss twice daily.

When to Visit the Dentist After a Gingivectomy?

Immediately consult a dentist if you experience:

Bleeding that won’t stop severe pain that won’t subside with time or at-home care

Fever or unusual pus discharge

What is the Difference Between Gingivectomy & Gingivoplasty?

Both surgeries involve the removal of gum tissue. The main difference between the two procedures is that a gingivectomy removes diseased gum tissue surrounding a gum pocket while a gingivoplasty is performed to reshape gum tissue usually for cosmetic reasons. A gingivoplasty can be used in combination with a gingivectomy and there are also cases where a gingivectomy can be used for cosmetic procedures. Dr. Julie will advise on what is best for your needs.

How are the Procedures Performed?

• Both procedures can be performed at our office safely and comfortably. The steps involved are as follows:

1. Your teeth will be cleaned to thoroughly remove plaque and calculus from the area using periodontal scaling and root planing.
2. A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area.
3. If you are having a gingivoplasty, we will shape and remove gum tissue contributing to a disease or create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance for your gums. This only takes a few minutes.
4. If you are having a gingivectomy, we will determine the depth of the pockets using a probe to provide guidance on where incisions will be required. Pockets are measured in millimeters.
5. We will remove only the gum tissue required to eliminate the pocket cutting at a 45-degree angle to the tooth to ensure we take only the tissue that is diseased. This cut is “apical.”
6. Once we have completed the procedure, we will place a surgical dressing on the gum tissue.
7. We will send you home with proper instructions to care for your mouth following your procedure.

Gingivectomy vs Gingivoplasty

• Gum tissue removal is referred to as a gingivectomy.
• Gingivoplasty involves altering the gums to change the way they look or perform certain tasks, such as preventing cavities or enhancing chewing.
• In order to restore tooth and gum function, gingivoplasty—a less common kind of gum disease treatment—may be performed if your gums are harmed by a hereditary disorder or as part of other dental operations, particularly when your teeth and gums deteriorate over time.

A note from Dr. Mansour Majed?

-GP Dentist?- Master’s of Fixed Prosthodontics

Gingivectomy vs Gingivoplasty: What You Should Know?

Gingivectomies and gingivoplasties are special dental surgical procedures used to treat periodontal disease and other gum-related issues. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, tissue and bone that hold your teeth in place. Although this disease has been typically treated using scaling and root planning, more advanced cases require surgery. Other gum related issues tend to be of a cosmetic nature such as gummy smiles or uneven gum contouring which can affect the appearance of your smile. While most of these surgeries are performed with a scalpel, they can also be performed using electrosurgery units, diamond burrs, and lasers. Laser treatments are an effective option for treatment with less pain and quicker healing.

What is Periodontal Disease?

• Periodontal disease is serious as it affects not only your gums but also the bone that holds your root. It begins with gingivitis and proceeds to a bacterial infection that can lead to tooth loss and gum recession. Symptoms can include:

1. Bleeding gums.
2. Bone loss is detected with an x-ray.
3. Loose teeth.
4. Gum recession.
5. Pus or clear fluid from the gums and the gum line.

• If gingivitis is allowed to progress, plaque and calculus can spread into the natural pocket between the ridge of the gum line and the tooth's enamel leading to inflammation. The inflammation widens the slim gaps that occur naturally between the tooth and gum. This widening allows more bacteria to aggravate the sensitive tissue along the root's outer surface, creating severe damage if left unchecked. The only way progress can be stopped is to prescribe a gingivectomy. In some cases, a gingivoplasty is used for gingivectomy to shape the gumline to assist in treatment.

What is the Difference Between Gingivectomy & Gingivoplasty?

• Both surgeries involve the removal of gum tissue. The main difference between the two procedures is that a gingivectomy removes diseased gum tissue surrounding a gum pocket while a gingivoplasty is performed to reshape gum tissue usually for cosmetic reasons. A gingivoplasty can be used in combination with a gingivectomy and there are also cases where a gingivectomy can be used for cosmetic procedures. will advise on what is best for your needs.

How are the Procedures Performed?

Both procedures can be performed at our office safely and comfortably. The steps involved are as follows:

1. Your teeth will be cleaned to thoroughly remove plaque and calculus from the area using periodontal scaling and root planing.
2. A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area.
3. If you are having a gingivoplasty, we will shape and remove gum tissue contributing to a disease or create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance for your gums. This only takes a few minutes.
4. If you are having a gingivectomy, we will determine the depth of the pockets using a probe to provide guidance on where incisions will be required. Pockets are measured in millimeters.
5. We will remove only the gum tissue required to eliminate the pocket cutting at a 45-degree angle to the tooth to ensure we take only the tissue that is diseased. This cut is “apical.”
6. Once we have completed the procedure, we will place a surgical dressing on the gum tissue.
7. We will send you home with proper instructions to care for your mouth following your procedure.

How Do Laser Treatments Differ from Traditional Methods?

• Laser treatments?provide an option that is tissue-preserving, regenerative, and bone-building. It will also target infected pockets, but in this case, we will use a laser instead of a scalpel. Not only does the laser cut the tissue that has to be removed, but it also kills the infected tissue and existing bacteria. Following the cut, we can easily remove calculus with an ultrasonic root cleaner. We then use laser energy to seal the tissue which not only heals but also prevents further infection and bleeding. This approach allows the body to use its own healing powers as the lasers stimulate stem cells generating new connective tissues, bone, and collagen. This restores the integrity of the bone

What are the Benefits of a Gingivectomy?

• The benefits of a gingivectomy include:
• Diseased tissue is removed
• Pocket depth is reduced
• Gum disease is halted and/or controlled
• Improves ability to maintain good hygiene
• Helps save teeth and bone
• Contributes to oral health

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