Gingivectomy Corpus Christi
Reshaping the Gums to Treat Periodontal Disease
In advanced cases of gum disease (a.k.a. “periodontal disease”), harmful bacteria “eat away” at the gums, causing them to pull back from the dental roots. This causes pockets of empty space to form known as “periodontal pockets.” These not only make it easier for bacteria to hide and spread the disease, but also destabilize nearby teeth and put them at risk of coming loose or falling out. To address this, we can perform a gingivectomy – otherwise known as gum recontouring. Request an appointment with our local specialists or keep reading to learn more.
Why Choose South Texas Periodontics & Implants for Your Gingivectomy?
- Board-Certified Gum Health Specialists
- Laser Periodontal Surgery Promotes Comfort
- CareCredit Financing & Dental Insurance Accepted
What’s a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy removes the loose and infected gum tissue created by periodontal pockets (though it can also be used cosmetically to reduce “gummy smiles"). Since we use a soft tissue laser for gum surgeries, our team will be able to precisely target unhealthy gum tissue while leaving perfectly healthy tissue untouched. By the end of your treatment, you’ll have a proportional, bacteria-free gumline that’s firmly attached to your dental roots.
How Does a Gingivectomy Work?
Dental lasers are very comfortable for patients, but rest assured, our team will begin your gingivectomy by administering a local anesthetic. Once your mouth is numb, we’ll meticulously remove loose, infected gum tissue from your smile. We’ll also take care to reshape the remaining healthy tissue so that your gumline will be proportionate to your teeth.
The laser will instantly cauterize your gum tissue, meaning there’s no need for stitches. That said, we’ll likely place a soft putty over the treatment area to help keep it protected. If the material doesn’t fall out on its own, we can remove it during your next appointment.
Aftercare for a Gingivectomy
Maintaining a daily oral hygiene routine will be crucial for your gingivectomy aftercare. Without taking steps to keep your mouth clean, plaque could build up along your gumline again and lead to reinfection. Gently brush your teeth twice per day, and floss once per day. We may also recommend or prescribe an anti-bacterial mouthwash.
Please take any and all medication as directed. If we prescribe antibiotics, continue to take the full dose. In order for them to work properly, you must use the entire package!
Finally, stick to a soft food diet while you recover. Your gums may be sore after your gingivectomy, and it’s important not to disturb them while they’re still healing. Good foods to eat during this time are scrambled eggs, pudding, well-blended smoothies, and other similar non-crunchy, easy-to-chew options.