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Gingivectomy
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. Gingivectomy is usually done before gum disease has damaged the bone supporting your teeth. The doctor will start by numbing your gums with a local anesthetic. He or she may use a laser to remove loose gum tissue.
After removing the gum tissue, the doctor will put a temporary putty over your gum line. This will protect your gums while they heal. You can eat soft foods and drink cool or slightly warm liquids while the putty is in place and your gums are healing.
What To Expect After SurgeryYou can return to your normal activities once the anesthetic wears off. It usually takes a few days or weeks for the gums to heal.
The contour or shape of your gums may change.
What To Think About- Gingivectomy may help keep gum disease from further damaging your gum tissue, teeth, and bones by helping you to clean better around and between your teeth. If bones are damaged, it is more likely that you will lose your teeth.
- Gum disease usually will progress if you do not brush and floss regularly after surgery or if you continue to use tobacco.
- To promote healing, stop all use of tobacco. It decreases your ability to fight infection of your gums and delays healing. For more information, see the topic Quitting Tobacco Use.
- Regular follow-up with your dentist is important. If your gum disease gets worse, you may need a different type of surgery.