Gingivoplasty – Procedure, Cost, Definition, Indications, or Gingivectomy

Gingivoplasty, a type of periodontal surgery, involves reshaping the gum tissue around the teeth. Primarily used to treat periodontal disease, it also addresses cosmetic concerns such as a gummy smile. This procedure aims to restore the health and appearance of gums, ensuring better oral health and aesthetics.

Key Facts

• Gingivoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes and contours the gums
• It can be done for cosmetic reasons or to treat gum diseases
• The procedure is typically performed by a periodontist or a dentist with training in periodontal procedures
• Costs for gingivoplasty can vary widely based on the extent of the procedure, location, and insurance coverage
• The procedure involves reshaping the gum tissue using surgical instruments or lasers
• Recovery time is usually short, but patients may experience mild discomfort and should follow a soft diet for a few days

What is a Gingivoplasty?

Gingivoplasty is a dental procedure that involves the surgical reshaping and contouring of the gums (gingiva). This procedure can be performed for various reasons, including cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of the gums, or as a part of periodontal treatment for conditions such as gum disease. Gingivoplasty reshapes gum tissue, often hypertrophic or overgrown, to create a more aesthetically pleasing gum line. It can remove excess tissue, treat diseased tissue, and correct irregular gingival margins.

Indications for Gingivoplasty

1. Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease may lead to the formation of deep bacterial pockets and infected pockets, necessitating surgical intervention. In cases of gum disease, gingivoplasty may be performed to remove overgrown tissue and to create a natural gum shape that is easier to clean and maintain.
2. Cosmetic Improvement: For patients with a gummy smile, abnormally short teeth, or irregular gum contours. For cosmetic reasons, it may be done to correct gums that are too high or too low around the teeth, to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

How Much Does a Gingivoplasty Cost?

The cost of gingivoplasty can vary based on several factors, including the complexity and extent of the procedure, the geographic location, the expertise of the dental professional, and insurance coverage. On average, the cost for gingivoplasty ranges from $200 to $600 per tooth. However, if the procedure is medically necessary as part of periodontal treatment, insurance may cover a portion of the cost. It is advisable to consult with your dentist and insurance provider to get an accurate estimate of the costs involved.

The Procedure: How Does a Gingivoplasty Work?

Gingivoplasty is typically performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum diseases, or a general dentist with training in periodontal procedures. The procedure can be performed using various tools, including scalpels, electrosurgery units, or laser devices.

Here’s how the procedure typically works:

1. Preoperative Considerations

• Consultation and Planning with Oral Health Assessment: A thorough examination to determine the extent of periodontal disease or other gum-related issues. Before the procedure, the dentist will evaluate the condition of your gums and discuss the goals.
• Patient Expectations: Discussing cosmetic and health goals and expectations of the procedure with the patient.

2. Surgical procedure

• Anesthesia and Incisions: Local anesthesia is usually administered to numb the area and ensure the patient does not feel pain during the procedure. Incisions made in the gum tissue to remove diseased or excess tissue.
• Contouring and Reshaping: Gum Contouring is reshaping of the gum line to achieve a more harmonious appearance with natural teeth. After that surgeon performs gingival sculpting – fine adjustments to create a uniform and smooth contour. The procedure involves reshaping the remaining healthy gum tissues to achieve a more natural and aesthetic appearance. The dentist will carefully reshape and remove excess gum tissue. This can be done with a scalpel, electric knife, or a laser. The choice of instrument often depends on the dentist’s preference and the specific needs of the case.
• Removing Diseased Tissue: Diseased gum tissue is carefully excised to leave only healthy tissue behind.
• Eliminating Bacterial Infection: Gingivoplasty can help eliminate deep bacterial pockets, reducing the risk of further infection.
• Stitches and Dressing: In some cases, stitches may be necessary to help the gums heal properly. A periodontal dressing might also be applied to protect the area and facilitate healing.

3. Postoperative Care: Healing and Recovery

• Immediate Aftercare: Surgical dressing may be applied to protect the gums as they heal.
• Post-Procedure Care (Diet and Oral Hygiene): After the procedure, patients are generally advised to follow a soft diet for a few days and to avoid vigorous brushing in the area that was treated. It is also important to follow any additional post-operative instructions provided by the dentist.
• Pain Medication: Prescribed as needed to manage discomfort following the procedure.
• Follow-up: Monitoring Healing during regular check-ups to ensure proper healing and to address any complications. A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within 7-10 days to monitor the healing process and to remove any stitches if they were placed.
• Potential Complications: These include infection in case of improper oral hygiene and gum recession if too much tissue is removed or the gums are overly thinned.

4. Techniques Used

• Traditional Surgery: Involves the use of scalpels to remove excess tissue and reshape the gums.
• Laser Surgery: Utilizes laser energy for precision and minimal discomfort.

Targeted Areas for Treatment

Gingivoplasty can target various areas of the gums. Most commonly, it’s used to reshape gum tissue around multiple teeth. It can also be used in cases of gum recession, where the gum line has receded and exposed too much of the tooth’s root. Moreover, it may be performed to correct overgrown gums that cover too much of the teeth’s crown.

Risks and Side Effects

As with any surgical procedure, gingivoplasty comes with some risks and side effects:

• Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, especially within the first 24 hours after the procedure.
• Swelling and Discomfort: The treated area may be swollen and sore for several days.
• Infection: There’s a risk of infection, although it’s relatively low. Proper post-operative care can minimize this risk.

What to Expect After Gingivoplasty

After the procedure, patients can expect some level of discomfort, which usually subsides within a few days. It’s important to follow the dentist’s instructions on oral hygiene and care. Patients should avoid smoking and consuming hot or spicy foods as these can irritate the gums. Typically, a follow-up appointment is scheduled within 7-10 days to monitor the healing process.

Preparing for Gingivoplasty

Before undergoing a gingivoplasty, patients should have a clear understanding of the procedure. It’s important to discuss any medications or supplements you are taking with your dentist. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure if sedation is used.

Bottom line

Gingivoplasty is a specialized dental procedure that can significantly improve the health and appearance of your gums. If you are considering this procedure, it is important to consult with a qualified dental professional who can provide detailed information and guidance based on your specific needs.

This article is complete and was published on June 25, 2023, and last updated on December 23, 2023.