If your gums feel uneven, overgrown, or painful—especially near the molars—you might be a candidate for gingivectomy or gingivoplasty. While both procedures involve reshaping gum tissue, they serve different purposes in gingival health. Understanding the difference can help you make an informed decision about your dental health.
What Is a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove diseased or excess gum tissue, helping improve oral health. It’s commonly performed in patients with:
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Deep gum pockets
- Overgrown gum tissue from medications or poor oral hygiene
Gingivectomy Definition:
A dental procedure that removes infected or overgrown gum tissue to reduce pockets and prevent further periodontal damage.
What Is a Gingivoplasty?
Unlike gingivectomy, gingivoplasty is primarily a cosmetic or functional procedure. It reshapes healthy gum tissue for a smoother, more natural contour around the teeth.
It’s often done for patients who have: Treatment options must be discussed with your dentist for optimal results.
- Uneven gum lines
- Gums that hurt around molars due to poor shape
- Small or short-looking teeth
- Healed gums post-gingivectomy that need refining
This is also referred to in Spanish-speaking countries as gengivoplastia. Incorporating laser gingivectomy techniques can improve precision and recovery time.
Gingivectomy or Gingivoplasty: Which Do You Need?
Gingivectomy
- Gum disease
- Overgrown or thick gums (possibly followed by gingivoplasty)
Gingivoplasty
- Cosmetic reshaping
- Painful gum edges
In many cases, your dentist may recommend both procedures—starting with a gingivectomy to remove diseased tissue, followed by a gingivoplasty surgery to contour the gum line for a natural gingival appearance.
Who Performs Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty?
When you need specialized procedures like gingivectomy or gingivoplasty, it’s crucial to consult with trained dental professionals. This often means visiting a skilled periodontist or experienced dentist. These are surgical procedures requiring expertise in removing gum tissue and treating periodontal disease to ensure optimal oral health and prevent complications. Whether you’re removing diseased tissue or simply reshaping gums for cosmetic improvement, the precision of the dental surgeon is essential for healthy gums and an aesthetically pleasing smile.
What Does Gingivoplasty Cost?
The gingivoplasty cost can vary based on several factors:
- How many teeth are involved
On average, it ranges between $200 to $400 per quadrant, though prices may be higher for extensive cosmetic work. Dental insurance may cover gingivoplasty if it’s deemed medically necessary.
Tip: Always ask your dentist for a personalized estimate.
What to Expect After Surgery
After either procedure, it’s normal to experience:
- Mild soreness or swelling
- Temporary gum sensitivity
- Slight bleeding
- Soft-food diet for a few days
If your gum hurts around molar areas after surgery, over-the-counter pain relievers and salt water rinses usually help. Healing time is typically 1–2 weeks.
Recovery and Aftercare for Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty
Gingivoplasty usually heals within a week, while gingivectomy recovery may need up to two weeks. Gingivoplasty usually heals within a week, while gingivectomy may need up to two weeks. Post-operative care, including proper dressing, is vital for comfort and healing. Patients should stick to a soft-food diet and ease back into brushing and flossing to avoid irritation and maintain tissue health. Gentle oral hygiene is key to keeping the surgical site clean and free from infection. Follow your dentist’s aftercare guidance, including advice on when to return to normal dental hygiene practices to maintain long-term oral health. Proper dressing application and home care can enhance healing.
Long-term Benefits and Impact on Gingival and Oral Health
Both gingivectomy and gingivoplasty offer long-term oral health benefits. Gingivectomy effectively treats gum disease by removing diseased tissue and reducing periodontal pockets, helping prevent further infection and preserving tooth and bone structures. Gingivoplasty, on the other hand, enhances the cosmetic appearance of gums and makes cleaning between teeth easier, reducing plaque buildup and risk of gum disease. Properly managed, these treatments can lead to healthier gum and teeth condition, resulting in a more attractive smile.
Whether you’re dealing with periodontal disease or simply want to reshape your smile, knowing the difference between a gingivectomy or gingivoplasty is crucial. One treats disease; the other enhances aesthetics. Both can play an important role in your gingival health.
Have questions or need a personalized treatment plan? Contact Milltown Dental to schedule your consultation.