What is Gingivectomy?
Let’s start with the gingivectomy definition. The gingivectomy procedure involves the surgical removal of gum tissue. Gingivectomy with laser is often used to treat gum disease or improve the gum appearance for cosmetic reasons. The gingivectomy dental code is often listed under periodontal services, with the gingivectomy ADA code being D4210.
What is the Purpose of a Gingivectomy?
The purpose of a periodontitis gingivectomy is multifaceted. It treats gums by removing diseased gum tissue and reshaping healthy gum tissue for better aesthetic appeal and to facilitate effective gum and teeth cleaning.
Gingivectomy Causes
Gingivectomy Causes include:
- Advanced gum diseases like Gingivitis and Periodontitis.
- Having the genetic factors to excessive gum growth or gum disease.
- Medication side effects can cause gum overgrowth, necessitating removal.
- Poor oral hygiene and accumulation of plaque and tartar.
- Exposing more of the tooth structure for crowns or fillings.
- Excessive improvements in the appearance of the gumline and overall smile aesthetics.
Gingivectomy Symptoms
Signs of gingivectomy include:
- Persistent swelling and inflammation of the gum tissue.
- Big gaps between teeth and gums that are difficult to clean.
- Frequent bleeding during brushing, flossing, or spontaneous bleeding.
- Bad breath that doesn’t improve with regular oral hygiene.
- Loose teeth due to receding gum tissue and loss of attachment.
- Ongoing gum pain, especially while eating or brushing.
Gingivectomy Procedure Steps
The gingivectomy procedure typically involves:
- Come to our office and fill out a gingivectomy consent form.
- Our dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the gum area that is being treated. In this way, we ensure you feel no pain during the gingivectomy procedure.
- We use specialized dental tools or a laser and carefully remove the excess gum tissue. This step removes the diseased or overgrown tissue contributing to gum disease or beauty concerns.
- After we remove the excess tissue, our dentist reshapes the remaining gum. This step creates a more natural and attractive gum line, improves the appearance, and achieves a better tooth-to-gum ratio.
- Once The reshaping phase is complete, we thoroughly clean the treated area. This removes any debris or remaining particles, ensures the area is free from potential irritants, and promotes quicker healing.
- We will inform you with gingivectomy aftercare instructions to help you take better care of your gums.
Gingivectomy Before & After
Gingivectomy Aftercare
The gingivectomy healing process requires aftercare. You need to follow our post-procedure care guidelines. They most likely include:
- Using painkillers and antibiotics to manage pain and prevent signs of infection after gingivectomy.
- Gently brushing your teeth and flossing to keep the area clean. Remember to avoid the treated area until it heals.
- Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Do it several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Avoid spicy, hot, or hard foods that can irritate the gums.
- Staying hydrated to aid the healing process.
- Avoiding intense activities for a few days to prevent bleeding and swelling.
- Attending all scheduled follow-up visits to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Do Gums Grow Back after Gingivectomy?
No, gums do not grow back to their original form after a gingivectomy. This laser procedure permanently removes excessive or diseased gum tissues. After the procedure, the remaining gum tissue heals and forms a new, healthier gum line. In addition, while the exact tissue removed does not regenerate, the gums adapt and may better cover exposed areas as they heal.
Is a Gingivectomy Painful?
No, a gingivectomy is not painful during the procedure. Because of the following:
- During the procedure, you might feel minimal to no pain since we use local anesthesia.
- Immediately after gingivectomy, you may feel mild pain as the anesthesia wears off.
- During the first few days, you may feel moderate pain. It is manageable with over-the-counter painkillers.
Note: Your dentist will give you aftercare instructions to ensure you properly heal. Following the gingivectomy aftercare, you feel better within a few days.
How Long Does Gingivectomy Pain Last?
- Your immediate pain lasts a few hours post-procedure.
- Your mild to moderate pain typically lasts for 3 to 5 days.
- Your minor pain can persist for up to 1-2 weeks as the gums heal.
Laser Gingivectomy Healing Time
The period of the gingivectomy healing process can vary. Typically, gingivectomy recovery takes:
- 1 to 2 days for immediate recovery. During this period, your initial discomfort and swelling begin to subside.
- 1 to 2 weeks for early healing. You will experience a noticeable reduction in pain and swelling as your gums start to heal visibly.
- 4 to 6 weeks to achieve complete healing. Your tissue regenerates fully and stabilizes, with gums completely healed.
Eating after Gingivectomy
After a gingivectomy, what you eat matters. For the first few days, try to have soft foods. Mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups can be safe options for you. Try not to eat crunchy or spicy foods that may irritate the healing area. Drinking plenty of water to keep the mouth clean. Make sure to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid any harm to the treated area. As you heal, you can slowly get back to your regular diet.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy benefits include:
- Improving gum health and appearance.
- Reducing periodontal pockets.
- Facilitating better oral hygiene.
Gingivectomy side effects include:
- Temporary sensitivity and pain.
- Risk of infection if you don’t follow aftercare instructions.
Who is a Candidate for Gingivectomy?
You are a good candidate for gingivectomy if you are:
- Dealing with gum disease.
- Needing improved dental hygiene.
- Having excess gum tissue or gum pockets.
- Having cosmetic purposes.
- Experiencing gum overgrowth.
How Much Does Gingivectomy Cost?
The average cost of gingivectomy can vary widely depending on the extent of the procedure, the dentist’s experience, and your location. Generally, you can expect a broad price range, but to find out the specific gingivectomy prices for your case, please contact us online or call us directly at (480) 906-3655. We’ll be happy to provide detailed information and discuss your options.
Does Insurance Cover Gingivectomy?
Your insurance company may cover gingivectomy if it’s considered medically necessary, such as for treating gum disease. About 50-80% of insurance plans might cover the procedure under these circumstances. However, cosmetic procedures are usually not covered. To know about the gingivectomy cost with insurance, check with your insurance provider for specific details on your coverage and any required documentation.
Gingivectomy Near Me in Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Arizona
Dr. Foroughi of Atrium Dental in Phoenix, Arizona, offers the best and most affordable Gingivectomy treatment services in Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Arizona. We only work with the best periodontists in Phoenix. To discuss your dentistry options with an expert team of dentists, schedule a consultation session at 480-906-3655 and fill out our online appointment form.
FAQ
Medical insurance may cover a gingivectomy if it is deemed medically necessary, such as for treating severe gum disease. Check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Yes, you are awake during a gingivectomy. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, ensuring you feel no pain while remaining conscious.
Latest Blogs
Gingivectomy was something I was nervous about, but the procedure was smooth, and my gums feel much better now.