Gingivectomy is a minor surgical intervention performed to reduce the amount of gum covering the teeth we show when we smile. This periodontal operation also treats inflammation that causes tissue growth in the gums. The gum surrounding the tooth is cut. For this dental treatment to work, the patient must have an adequately placed gum. The technique can also be used to remove supraceous periodontal pockets.
What are the Causes of Gingival Recession?
Having an overgrown upper jaw is among the most basic causes of gum recession. What causes excess gums is more bone growth than normal. The maxillofacial surgeon is responsible for reducing this bone. Gingivectomy corrects only the aesthetic part of the smile. Orthognathic surgery is used if a better solution is desired.
Constantly clenching the teeth causes wear, causing the teeth to shrink and wear away, exposing the gums. Porcelain crowns or veneers are often used to cover the tooth when it is cured. In order to close the mouth correctly, it should be stated that the upper teeth tend to come into contact with the lower teeth. The teeth of the smaller upper arch tend to erupt, taking the gums with them.
Modified passive eruption is another cause. EPA, which occurs with the natural growth of the teeth, causes the gums to not regress sufficiently and covers the tooth enamel significantly.
Gingivectomy Advantages
Gingivectomy has the following advantages:
- It becomes possible to use more of the tooth.
- Your teeth will appear longer, larger and less square than before the procedure.
- A significant improvement will be achieved in the smile, it will be more aesthetic and proportional.
- It is a painless, predictable and quick surgery.
- Very satisfactory and visible results are usually achieved.
What are the Differences Between Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty?
Gingivoplasty focuses only on the reshaped end of the gum to achieve a more harmonious aesthetic appearance of the smile. In contrast, gingivectomy is defined as resection of the gum. It is a more comprehensive excisional surgery than gingivoplasty. In gingivoplasty, the edges of the gum are polished so that the tooth surface is exposed. In this way, if the teeth look small, this will have a larger appearance.
The aim of gingivoplasty is to create adequate contours and include a small amount of gingival recession. Gingivectomy, larger amounts of gingival recession.
Gingivoplasty is indicated for aesthetic procedures. Gingivectomy is used as a support in the periodontic area, while giving the teeth a more cleaning effect and providing shine.
Both techniques have the same disadvantages. Cosmetic problems run the risk of aggravating them rather than correcting them. There is also a high risk of root exposure if you are not careful. There may be an increase in tooth sensitivity by exploring the neck of the tooth more than it should be.
What Should Be Considered After Gingivectomy?
Recovery from this surgery can take between a month and six weeks. After about six months, the gums will look normal. It is important to maintain proper oral hygiene by using a soft-bristle toothbrush as well as dental floss. Most likely, the dentist will prescribe some type of mouthwash to aid healing to minimize the risk of infection.
Applying cold compresses to the operated area for about five minutes every half hour will work on the first day.
Eating foods that are usually at room temperature or cold for the first 2 days helps to reduce inflammation faster, thus preventing bleeding that may occur after the procedure. You should eat a bland diet without acidic foods. Avoid exposing yourself to high temperatures. Smoking and alcohol should not be consumed.