Gingivectomy is the surgical removal of gum tissue. This treatment aims to repair damage caused by gum diseases and address the separation of gums from the teeth. When gums are separated from the teeth, deep pockets form in these areas. These pockets make it difficult to brush the teeth properly, leading to plaque formation. The plaque causes bacteria to proliferate, which can trigger gingivitis. If gingivitis is not treated, tooth loss may occur. Gingivectomy helps prevent this outcome and is also referred to as a periodontal flap.

Gum disease is a common condition among adults, primarily characterized by inflammation of the gum tissue. This inflammation often results from increased plaque formation, a weakened immune system, poor oral hygiene, smoking, and diabetes. If untreated, gum disease can damage soft tissues and bone, leading to tooth loss.

Gingivoplasty may sometimes be performed immediately after gingivectomy. Gingivoplasty involves reshaping the undamaged gums to enhance their appearance. While gingivectomy focuses on correcting damaged gums, gingivoplasty aims to improve the aesthetic appearance of healthy gums. This procedure may include adding tissue to the gum line or performing bone grafts for a natural look.

Gingivectomy and gingivoplasty are successfully performed at Atlantic Dental Clinic, one of the top clinics in Istanbul. As with any oral health treatment, selecting the right clinic is crucial. Patients are encouraged to research clinics and consult preliminary examinations before undergoing treatment. Those interested in gingivectomy and gingivoplasty in Istanbul can contact our dental clinic for an appointment.

What are the Reasons for Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is used to address various issues, including:

– Inflamed Gums: Untreated gum disease can lead to various health problems, including tooth loss. Gingivectomy can prevent the progression of gum inflammation.

– Restoration Interference: If gums interfere with the restoration of teeth, some gum tissue may need to be removed. Gingivectomy is effective in such cases.

– Gummy Smile: A gummy smile, where excessive gum visibility makes the teeth appear smaller, can be corrected with gingivectomy.

– Gum Overgrowth: Decayed teeth can cause gums to grow and fill gaps. Gingivectomy is used to treat this condition.

– Gum Injury or Infection: Gingivectomy can address problems such as gum injury, infections, gingivitis, and deformities due to aging.

Who Can Have Gingivectomy?

– Advanced Gum Enlargement: Used to treat severe gum enlargement caused by gum diseases or medications for conditions like epilepsy, neuropathic diseases, and bipolar disorder.

– Bone Loss and Pockets: Gingivectomy addresses gaps (pockets) between teeth due to bone loss from periodontal disease.

– Gummy Smile: For individuals with excessive gum visibility when smiling.

– Gum Overgrowth: To address gum appearance related to untreated decay.

– Gum Issues: For patients with problems such as gum injury, infection, or aging-related gum deformation.

Is Gingivectomy Surgery Safe?

Yes, it is a reliable procedure with a high success and satisfaction rate. It is frequently used for issues like gum disease, gum recession, gum appearance, and aesthetic concerns.

What Should Be Considered Before Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is generally straightforward, but a few considerations are important:

– Pre-Surgery Examination: Your dentist will assess the amount of gum to be removed and ensure good oral hygiene to minimize inflammation.

– Clinic Selection: Choose a clinic with experienced professionals and proper hygiene standards to ensure successful surgery.

What are the Advantages of Gingivectomy?

– Prevents infection from reaching the bone and thus prevents tooth loss.

– Reduces gum pocket depth, improving oral cleaning.

– Cleans infection from the gums.

– Enhances the aesthetic appearance of the smile.

– Reduces sensitivity caused by gum recession.

– Prevents or reduces gum disease.

– Achieves a more aesthetic “pink” appearance of the gums.

How is Gingivectomy Performed?

Gingivectomy is performed under local anesthesia, typically lasting about 1 hour, depending on the amount of gum tissue to be removed. The procedure includes:

– Plaque Removal: Cleaning the teeth and correcting the root surface.

– Techniques: Using a scalpel or laser to cut and remove diseased tissue. Laser methods reduce bleeding and swelling and are less painful.

– Post-Procedure Care: Sterilizing the area, placing a gauze, and applying a tampon to speed up healing.

Scalpel vs. Laser for Gingivectomy

– Scalpel: Traditional method where diseased gum tissue is cut with a scalpel and removed with forceps.

– Laser: More modern, reduces bleeding, swelling, and pain. It is more commonly used today due to its advantages.

At What Age Should Gingivectomy Be Performed?

Gingivectomy can be performed on individuals of all ages who have completed bone development, which is typically finalized after puberty (around age 16-17 for women and 18-19 for men).

What Should Be Considered After Gingivectomy?

– First Hours: Pain may be minimal initially due to anesthesia. Follow your dentist’s instructions on medication, tampon changes, and ice application.

– First Days: Eat soft foods and follow any prescribed diet. Expect some pain, swelling, and bruising.

– First Week: Wounds will begin to heal, and you can return to a more normal diet. Avoid irritating foods and stop smoking if applicable.

– First Month: Recovery should be complete by one month. Regular check-ups will monitor gum health and recovery progress.

What Are the Risks of Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy generally poses minor risks, such as bleeding, tooth sensitivity, plaque formation, infection, blood clotting, and possible nerve damage. Choosing an experienced dentist helps minimize these risks.