How Painful is a Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess gum tissue. It is typically performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease.
Gingivectomy involves the removal of gum tissue. This can be vitally important to combat conditions like gingivitis, gum disease, periodontitis or periodontal disease. In some cases, tissue is removed in order to remove infection or weakened material, so that new healthy gum tissue can be grafted into the area. This surgery is used to save the health of the gums and teeth, but by doing so it can also create a small source of pain or discomfort for the patient.
What are the steps involved in gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed in the dentist's office. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes.
The first step is to numb the area with local anesthesia. Once the area is numb, the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue. The dentist will then use a scalpel or laser to remove the excess gum tissue. In some cases, stitches may be used to close the incisions.
After the procedure, the dentist will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to help you manage any discomfort or infection. You will also need to follow your dentist's instructions for brushing and flossing your teeth.
How painful is gingivectomy?
The pain level of gingivectomy varies from person to person. Each person has their own level of discomfort and pain as it relates to themselves. As a rule, most patients do not report extreme discomfort or pain. The pain level is also affected by the extent of the surgery and the patient's overall health. If the condition or infection leading to the gingivectomy is advanced, the doctor may need to remove deeper tissues, which can lead to more pain.
In general, gingivectomy is not considered to be a very painful procedure. The dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia, which will help to reduce the pain. After the procedure, the dentist will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort. They may also recommend over the counter medications, or dietary choices that will reduce inflammation and irritation of the area. Following a gingivectomy, hot peppers like habaneros are probably not the best choice.
Are there risks following a gingivectomy?
With all procedures there are risks. You will want to be cautious of any long standing bleeding, redness, irritation, or discharge from the area. All of these are signs of infection, and with dental infections you can expect more pain, further gum loss and recession, and eventually tooth loss. Check in with yourself after you eat and see if foods irritated the area, or you noticed more tooth sensitivity.
In most cases, these risks are minor and go away on their own. However, it is important to talk to your dentist before the procedure so you can have a plan to combat any that arise.