What is a Gingivectomy?              

At Lakeshore Dental Specialists in Detroit gingivectomy is offered as a dental procedure that removes and reshapes overgrown gum tissue. Gingival enlargement is a common condition that affects patients young and old.                  

Your gums may grow over your natural teeth due to increased collagen, certain medications, or heredity. In some cases, excess gum tissue can even grow over implants and teeth with braces. When this happens, it is difficult to properly clean your teeth. Even if you brush and floss twice daily, it is easy to miss hard-to-reach pockets that exist beneath your gum line. Bacteria and plaque flourish in these tight spaces. That sets you up for gum disease, a serious dental condition that affects nearly half of American adults.                    

The goal of a gingivectomy is to remove the excess gum tissue, which eliminates the pocket between your teeth and gums.              

At Lakeshore Dental Specialists, our doctors are gum reshaping experts. Our office is equipped with the latest laser technology to make your gingivectomy quick and comfortable.

Who is a Candidate for the Gingivectomy Procedure?        

A gingivectomy is necessary if your gums have grown over the crown of your tooth, creating tight pockets that make it hard to clean plaque.      

The gingivectomy procedure is usually done before gum disease has progressed to damage the bone that supports your teeth. Common signs and symptoms of gingival enlargement include:

         
• Visibly enlarged gums
         
• Uneven gum line
         
• Teeth that appear smaller than usual due to excess gum tissue
         
• Swelling and tenderness
         
• Changes in gum color
         
• Foul breath
         
• Plaque buildup under the gum line
       

The dental experts at Lakeshore Dental Specialists will perform a visual oral examination to detect enlarged gums. If treatment is necessary, they will come up with a treatment plan just for you.

Benefits of a Gingivectomy        

A gingivectomy at Lakeshore Dental Specialists can significantly improve the health and appearance of your smile. The earlier gingival enlargement is detected, the better. When it is caught early, a gingivectomy may spare you from tooth loss.

The procedure puts a stop to gum disease —a serious dental problem that affects nearly 48% of adults aged 30 and older. Gum disease is progressive. It may not only result in eventual tooth loss, but it also raises your risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke if left untreated. Once your gingival overgrowth is corrected at Lakeshore Dental Specialists, all these risks decrease. Your teeth will become easier to clean. Your smile will look better. Your gum line will appear more even. Who knew such a simple procedure could provide so many benefits!

What to Expect During Your Gingivectomy Recovery        

It takes one to two weeks to fully recover from a gingivectomy.    

During this time, your gums may feel slightly tender or inflamed. You may apply an ice pack for 15 minutes as needed during the first two days to ease swelling. In the first day or two, you may also have a small amount of bleeding. Your dentist may ask you to avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours. You will also likely notice increased gum sensitivity, so it is best to avoid consuming hot or cold food and drinks for the first 48 hours. If you have any questions during recovery, you may contact our office.

Your Gingivectomy Results        

A gingivectomy has instant benefits. Your teeth will be cleaner, your gum line will look more even, and more of your tooth surface will be exposed. Once removed, the excessive gums will not grow back.      

Your risk of developing gum disease decreases sharply and will remain that way as long as you continue to care for your teeth per our dentists’ recommendations. After your gingivectomy, you can feel confident knowing you have taken an important step to improve the health and appearance of your smile.

Schedule a Consultation for a Gingivectomy in Detroit        

At Lakeshore Dental Specialists, our doctors are masters of laser gum reshaping.

We help patients to take control of their oral health every day. Call our office today to book your gingivectomy consultation. Healthier teeth and gums are just one appointment away!