Gingivectomy &

Gingivoplasty

Overview

Gingivectomy and gingivoplasty are minor surgical procedures used to treat and reshape the gums. While they sound similar, each procedure serves a specific purpose:

  • A gingivectomy removes diseased or overgrown gum tissue to eliminate infection and improve oral health.

  • A gingivoplasty reshapes healthy gum tissue for a more symmetrical, natural-looking gum line.

These treatments are often recommended for patients with advanced gum disease, excessive gum overgrowth (due to genetics, medications, or orthodontic treatment), or uneven gums that affect the appearance of the smile.

At Village Dental, both procedures are performed with precision and care—either alone or in combination—to restore both function and aesthetics.

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Procedure Details

    • You’ll receive a thorough gum exam and x-rays to determine if this procedure is right for you.

    • Let us know if you are on any blood thinners or medications that may affect healing.

    • A pre-procedure cleaning may be recommended.

    • Sedation or comfort options are available if you have dental anxiety.

    • We’ll numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure complete comfort.

    • For a gingivectomy, we carefully remove the infected or excess gum tissue.

    • For a gingivoplasty, we sculpt the gum line for a more balanced, healthy appearance.

    • In many cases, a laser may be used to minimize bleeding and promote faster healing.

    • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the area treated.

    • Mild soreness, swelling, or tenderness is normal for a few days.

    • Soft foods and salt water rinses are recommended while healing.

    • We'll provide specific aftercare instructions to support healing and prevent infection.

When might you need this?

Self-Diagnosis Guide

You may be a candidate for gingivectomy or gingivoplasty if you:

  • Have red, swollen, or bleeding gums that don’t improve with cleanings alone

  • Notice overgrown gums that cover part of your teeth

  • Have “gummy” smile aesthetics that make teeth look short or uneven

  • Experience discomfort when brushing due to gum inflammation

  • Are preparing for crowns or restorations and need more tooth exposed

  • Have undergone braces and your gums haven’t reshaped naturally afterward

Benefits of the Procedure

Long-Term Benefits

  • Reduces the risk of future gum disease

  • Enhances the look of your smile without affecting your teeth

  • Supports other restorative procedures like crowns or veneers

Immediate Benefits

  • Removes inflamed, infected, or excessive gum tissue

  • Improves access for brushing and flossing

  • Creates a cleaner, more even gum contour

 FAQs

  • No. The area will be completely numbed, and most patients report only mild discomfort afterward, similar to a deep cleaning.

  • Most patients feel fully healed in 7–10 days, though complete tissue remodeling may take a few weeks.

  • Deep cleanings remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Gingivectomy and gingivoplasty are surgical procedures to remove or reshape the gums themselves.

  • If you’re getting a gingivoplasty, yes—in the best way. It can make your teeth look longer and more even by adjusting the gum line.

Related Services or Next Steps

  • Periodontal deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)

  • Crown lengthening (if prepping for a crown or veneer)

  • Cosmetic consultations for smile enhancements

  • Routine hygiene visits to prevent recurrence

Aftercare Instructions

  • Stick to soft, cool foods for the first 2–3 days.

  • Rinse gently with warm salt water or a prescribed rinse.

  • Avoid brushing the treated area aggressively—use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

  • Don’t smoke or drink alcohol while healing.

  • Call us if you notice unusual bleeding, swelling, or pain after 3 days.

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