A gingivectomy is minor gum surgery that removes or reshapes gum tissue that is overgrown or covers too much of the teeth. It is done for health, when gums are enlarged and inflamed, and for aesthetics, when teeth look small because the gum covers them.
This guide explains what it treats, how it is done and what recovery looks like.
What is a gingivectomy for?
The most common reasons:
- Gums enlarged by inflammation, some medications or orthodontic treatment.
- A gummy smile caused by excess gum tissue over the teeth.
- Teeth that look short or uneven because of the gum line.
- Preparing teeth before some restorations or a smile design.
Not every gummy smile is treated the same way
A gummy smile can come from excess gum, bone shape, the lip or jaw position. A gingivectomy only corrects the first. That's why the periodontist evaluates the cause before recommending it.
Procedure and recovery
It is done under local anesthesia after a periodontal evaluation. Mild tenderness for a few days is common; you follow a soft diet and gentle hygiene, and we check healing at a follow-up visit. The cost depends on how many teeth are included and is quoted at your evaluation.
The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not replace a professional dental evaluation. Results may vary between patients.