Gingivoplasty is a procedure used to reshape the gum line to improve the appearance of teeth and smile. Your dentist may suggest this procedure in cases where uneven gums are causing aesthetic problems, such as a gummy smile. Gingivoplasty may help improve patients’ confidence in their smiles and help them feel more comfortable while speaking. Gingivoplasty can also be used to treat gum deformities caused by periodontitis, an advanced form of gum disease. The procedure involves reshaping the gum tissue to give it a more even and symmetrical appearance.
What is Gingivoplasty?
Gingivoplasty, also known as gum contouring and gingival sculpting, is used to reshape the gum line and improve the appearance of the gums, teeth, and smile. The procedure can be used to correct gum deformities, reduce excessive gingival display (gummy smile correction), and even out the gum line. It can also be used to treat gum deformities caused by periodontitis.
A gingivoplasty procedure is performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the treatment of gum disease, such as periodontitis. The procedure is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not medically necessary. However, in some cases, your dentist may recommend gingivoplasty for oral health purposes.
What’s The Difference Between Gingivoplasty & Gingivectomy for Periodontitis?
Gingivoplasty and gingivectomy are similar procedures but with different objectives.
Gingivoplasty involves reshaping the gums to improve their appearance, while gingivectomy involves the removal of diseased gum tissue, for example, in the case of periodontitis.
Both gingivoplasty and gingivectomy can be used to manage the effects of periodontitis. Both procedures are used to eliminate periodontal pockets and reshape the gums to improve the appearance of the teeth and gums, reduce inflammation and improve oral hygiene.
Gingivoplasty for Periodontitis
In periodontitis, gingivoplasty can be performed In conjunction with gingivectomy. Periodontal pockets are spaces that form between teeth and gums as a result of advanced periodontal disease (periodontitis).
A gingivectomy is performed to remove these periodontal pockets, where bacteria and debris accumulate. Removing these pockets eliminates the source of infection and reduces inflammation.
However, the removal of these pockets may cause your gums to appear misshapen and uneven. To restore the natural, healthy appearance of the gums and correct gum deformities caused by periodontitis, a gingivoplasty may be performed.
Advanced gum disease can also cause the gums to pull away from teeth, exposing their roots. This condition is known as gum recession, which can make teeth look longer than normal and unattractive.
So, your periodontist may recommend a gum graft procedure to create healthy new gums and protect exposed tooth roots. However, the gum graft may not grow back in the same shape as natural gums, creating an uneven gum line. In this case, a gingivoplasty procedure may be considered to restore the natural, healthy look of your gums.
How Is The Procedure Performed?
The gingivoplasty procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the process.
During the procedure, your periodontist will use a scalpel, laser, or electrocautery to cut or reshape the gums, removing any excess tissue and improving the overall appearance of your gums.
Gingivoplasty is usually performed for cosmetic reasons, but can also be done with gingivictomy to treat the harmful effects of periodontitis.
After the procedure, you may experience some minor swelling and discomfort in the area. Your periodontist will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and provide you with instructions for proper at-home care to reduce pain and ensure a successful recovery.
How long is recovery?
The recovery time following a periodontitis gingivectomy-gingivoplasty procedure is between 1-2 weeks, depending on the extent of your treatment.
During this time, it is important to follow all instructions provided by your periodontist for post-operative care, including
- Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day
- Avoiding hard foods or those that require significant chewing
- Avoid smoking
- Taking prescribed medications as directed
It is also essential to attend all follow-up appointments as recommended by your periodontist to ensure proper healing and long-term success. You can read more about gum graft recovery.
Gingivoplasty for Periodontitis – Conclusion
Gingivoplasty is a cosmetic procedure for reshaping and recontouring the gum line to improve the appearance of your smile. Gingivoplasty can be performed with gingivectomy to treat the effects of periodontitis, including reducing or eliminating pockets in the gums.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the healing process can take 1-2 weeks. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your periodontist, including taking prescribed medications as directed and attending all follow-up appointments.
