Why Do I Need a Gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy, also referred to as crown lengthening, is a minor oral surgery that involves removing excess or damaged gums in a minimally invasive procedure. The treatment corrects tissue overgrowth and improves the aesthetic appearance of your teeth by removing excessive gum tissue, or gingiva.
Gingivectomies are usually performed on adults. A gingivectomy is the preferred treatment option to make your smile healthy again.
If you have taken medication like blood pressure pills or undergone hormonal changes, like pregnancy or gingivitis, your gums will become larger and look unnatural.
You may also have a gingivectomy to correct and improve what is called a gummy smile, when your teeth appear shorter because of the excessive gum tissue.
A gingivectomy is far less intrusive and a more cost-effective option than a more expensive aesthetic procedure.
Are You a Candidate for Gingivectomy
Your periodontist could recommend a gingivectomy if you are experiencing gum recession because of:
- Gingivitis.
- Gum infections are caused by bacteria.
- A gum injury.
- Natural aging.
Your dentist will suggest seeing a periodontist for a gingivectomy if you have gum disease to prevent further damage. It will also make it more efficient for you and your dental team to clean your teeth.
Gum disease often causes sagging pockets around the teeth. These gaps quickly promote the accumulation of bacteria, plaque, calculus, and tartar. Further damage immediately results from these buildups.
If your dentist identifies an infection or gum disease during your regular exam or teeth cleaning and plans to stop progression, you should see a periodontist for this procedure.
Why Would You Need a Gingivectomy?
There are several reasons you might consider a gingivectomy. The treatment focuses on the reshaping of excessive or inflamed gums and is used to cure several issues, ranging from gum disease to aesthetic cosmetic improvements.
Gum disease often demands a gingivectomy. Gingivitis can result in sagging pockets between the gums and the teeth. Bacteria accumulate and thrive in these pockets, accelerating the irritation of your gums.
Gum reshaping is often needed as part of a restoration approach. When your gums inhibit access to the teeth that need restoration, your periodontist may remove some of the gum to allow access to the teeth in question.
Related Article: Average Cost of a Gingivectomy?