Gum Appearance and Gingivectomy
Gum appearance is an important part of overall oral health and appearance. Healthy gums are pink and firm, and they should fit snugly around the teeth. However, some people may have gums that are swollen, red, or bleeding. This can be a sign of gum disease, which is a serious condition that can damage the teeth and gums. In some cases, gum and periodontal disease sets in–and the gums actually recede from the surface of the teeth.
Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure wherein the doctor will remove isolated and compromised gum tissue. In some cases this tissue is infected, and in others it has simply stopped supporting the teeth. Gingivectomy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- Gingivitis- The Most prevalent form of gum disease. Typically associated with bleeding and irritation of the gums.
- Periodontitis- A more serious form of gum disease that can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming deep crevices near the tooth root. Periondontitis carries significant risk of infection or tooth loss.
- Aesthetics- Some patients worry that their gums are “too high” on their teeth, and alternately, that the gums have receded and show tooth much teeth. In these cases and gingivectomy may be followed by a gum graft.
Gingivectomy may be the first step in correcting or altering the appearance of your smile, Whether it is to remove or add gum tissue to the area.
How does gingivectomy affect gum appearance?
Gingivectomy can significantly improve the appearance of gums. After the procedure, the gums will be flatter and more even. This can make the teeth look longer and straighter. In some cases, gingivectomy can also help to improve the smile by reducing the amount of gum tissue, or strengthening the root structure of healthy gum tissues.. After surgery, during the healing process, a rush of blood and new tissue works to rebuild the area.
What are the risks of gingivectomy?
As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with gingivectomy. These risks include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Gum recession
- Tooth sensitivity
In most cases, these risks are minor and go away on their own. However, it is important to talk to your dentist about the risks and benefits of gingivectomy before you decide to have the procedure.
What are the alternatives to gingivectomy?
In some cases, other treatments may be effective in treating gum disease. These treatments include:
- Scaling and root planing, a procedure in which the dentist removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and smooths the root surfaces
- Antibiotics, which may be prescribed to treat infection
- Oral surgery, which may be used to remove bone spurs or other abnormalities that contribute to gum disease
How can you begin the process?
First, schedule an appointment with your dentist. You can discuss gingivectomy procedure and process, and what next steps look like. Then, request a proper cleaning, examination, and x rays. You want your doctor to gauge the overall health of your teeth and gums, to ensure you are ready for surgery.