Gingivectomy
Precise Gum Surgery for Healthier Smiles
Your gums are more than just a backdrop to your teeth—they play a vital role in the aesthetics, function, and health of your entire mouth. When gum tissue becomes overgrown or diseased, it can not only affect your appearance but also pose risks to your oral and overall health. That’s where Gingivectomy comes in.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, we offer expert Gingivectomy procedures as part of our comprehensive Oral Surgery services. Backed by a team of formally trained Oral Surgeons, state-of-the-art technology, and patient-centered care, our goal is to restore both the health and beauty of your smile—safely and comfortably.
Whether performed for medical or cosmetic reasons, Gingivectomy is a straightforward yet highly effective treatment that can dramatically improve your oral health, enhance your smile, and reduce your risk for more serious gum problems in the future.
What Is a Gingivectomy?
A Gingivectomy is a minor surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess or diseased gum tissue. The word comes from “gingiva,” meaning gums, and “ectomy,” meaning removal. The procedure is performed to reshape the gum line, reduce periodontal pockets, and create a healthier environment for the teeth and supporting structures.
At Affinity Dental Clinics, Gingivectomy in the Philippines is performed under local anesthesia and, if needed, Conscious Sedation for maximum patient comfort. The surgery can be completed in a single visit, with minimal discomfort and fast healing when performed by experienced professionals.
Why Is a Gingivectomy Performed?
There are both medical and cosmetic reasons to undergo a Gingivectomy. Common indications include:
In patients with chronic gum disease (periodontitis), deep pockets can form between the teeth and gums, harboring bacteria and plaque. A Gingivectomy removes the infected tissue and reduces the depth of these pockets, making it easier to clean and maintain the area.
Some patients have excess gum tissue that makes the teeth appear shorter than normal. A Gingivectomy can improve smile aesthetics by exposing more of the natural tooth surface, creating a more balanced and attractive appearance.
Certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure or epilepsy, can cause gum tissue to grow abnormally. A Gingivectomy can remove the excess tissue and restore normal gum contours.
Before placing crowns or restorations, a Gingivectomy may be performed to create a cleaner margin or expose more of the tooth structure for a better fit and appearance.
Benefits of a Gingivectomy
Undergoing a Gingivectomy at Affinity Dental Clinics offers a number of advantages:
• Better oral hygiene access to reduce future plaque buildup
• Enhanced smile aesthetics by reshaping the gum line
• Support for restorative or prosthetic work
• Minimally invasive and quick healing with expert care
By addressing both form and function, a Gingivectomy can have a profound impact on your oral health and self-confidence.
Why Trust Affinity Dental Clinics?
At Affinity Dental Clinics, Oral Surgery is one of our core specialties. Our Gingivectomy procedures are performed by formally trained and experienced Oral Surgeons who specialize in treating complex gum issues with precision and care.
We use advanced tools and diagnostics to ensure the best outcomes, including:
- Digital X-rays for low-radiation, high-resolution imaging
- Cone Beam CT Scans (CBCT) for 3D visualization when needed
- Surgical-grade instruments for clean and precise tissue removal
- Sterile operating and treatment rooms to ensure a safe clinical environment
Our technology allows us to plan and perform your Gingivectomy with accuracy, efficiency, and minimal trauma.
If you feel anxious about oral surgery, we offer Conscious Sedation, administered by a board-certified Anesthesiologist. This light sedation keeps you calm and pain-free while remaining conscious and responsive—ideal for patients undergoing more extensive gum reshaping or multiple procedures in one visit.
What to Expect During a Gingivectomy
Here’s a step-by-step overview of how a Gingivectomy is performed:
Your journey begins with a comprehensive dental evaluation. Our specialists will assess your gum condition, measure pocket depths, and evaluate your overall oral health. If imaging is required, we will use digital X-rays or CBCT scans for detailed views.
You’ll also receive a full explanation of the procedure, healing expectations, and aftercare instructions.
- Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area
- Conscious Sedation is provided if you choose it for added comfort
- The excess or diseased gum tissue is removed with scalpel, laser, or electrosurgical tools
- The gum line is carefully reshaped for health, function, and aesthetics
- A periodontal dressing may be applied to protect the area during healing
The procedure generally takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the extent of tissue removal and the number of teeth involved.
Aftercare and Recovery
Healing from a Gingivectomy is typically quick and straightforward when post-operative instructions are followed carefully.
You may experience:
• Slight discomfort or tenderness
• Sensitivity to hot or spicy foods
We recommend:
• Using cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Eating soft foods and avoiding hard or spicy items
• Rinsing gently with saltwater or an antibacterial mouthwash
• Avoiding brushing near the surgical area for the first few days
• Attending all follow-up appointments
Complete healing usually takes 1 to 2 weeks, with full tissue remodeling over several weeks.
Is a Gingivectomy Right for You?
You may be a candidate for Gingivectomy if:
• Your gums are overgrown, affecting aesthetics or hygiene
• You experience bleeding gums and deep pockets
• Your dentist has recommended gum reshaping for crowns or restorations
• You are unhappy with a gummy smile and want cosmetic improvement
Our Oral Surgery team will provide a personalized treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals.
Gingivectomy vs. Other Gum Treatments
How Gingivectomy compares to other dental procedures:
Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical deep cleaning procedure. Gingivectomy is surgical and used when pockets are too deep or when non-surgical therapy fails.
Both involve gum reshaping, but crown lengthening may also remove bone to expose more of the tooth for restorative purposes. Gingivectomy focuses only on soft tissue removal.
Gingivoplasty is cosmetic and reshapes healthy gums. Gingivectomy removes diseased or excessive gum tissue for medical or functional reasons.
Gingivectomy – Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is a dental procedure that involves the surgical removal of excess or diseased gum tissue. It is performed to treat gum disease, reshape the gums, or improve the appearance of the smile.
When is a gingivectomy recommended?
Gingivectomy may be recommended for:
• Treating advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
• Removing deep gum pockets that harbor bacteria
• Reshaping overgrown gums caused by medication or genetics
• Creating a more even gumline for cosmetic reasons
Is gingivectomy painful?
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during treatment. Mild discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure is normal and can be managed with medication and proper aftercare.
How long does a gingivectomy take?
A gingivectomy typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how many areas are being treated and the extent of gum removal.
What is the recovery time after gingivectomy?
Most patients recover within 7 to 10 days. During this time, you may be advised to follow a soft diet, avoid vigorous brushing in the treated area, and use prescribed rinses to support healing.
What should I expect after the procedure?
You may experience:
• Mild bleeding or swelling
• Temporary tooth sensitivity
• Tenderness in the gums
These are normal and typically subside within a few days.
Is gingivectomy a cosmetic or medical procedure?
It can be both. Gingivectomy is often performed for therapeutic reasons (to treat gum disease), but it may also be done for cosmetic purposes to enhance smile aesthetics and achieve a more even gumline.
Will my gums grow back after a gingivectomy?
No, the removed gum tissue does not grow back. This is why the procedure must be planned carefully to avoid exposing too much of the tooth or causing long-term sensitivity.
Can gingivectomy improve my smile?
Yes. Gingivectomy can dramatically improve the appearance of a “gummy smile,” create balance between the teeth and gums, and enhance the overall harmony of your smile.
Is the procedure safe?
Yes, when performed by a licensed dentist or periodontist, gingivectomy is a safe and effective procedure. At Affinity Dental Clinics, we use sterile techniques, precision instruments, and modern anesthesia for optimal patient comfort and outcomes.
How much does a gingivectomy cost in the Philippines?
The cost varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the number of teeth involved. It’s best to schedule a consultation at Affinity Dental Clinics so we can assess your case and provide an accurate treatment plan and cost estimate.
Will I need follow-up appointments?
Yes. Follow-ups are essential to monitor healing and ensure that the gums are reattaching properly. We may schedule 1–2 visits after the procedure, depending on your progress.
Can gingivectomy be combined with other treatments?
Absolutely. Gingivectomy is often combined with scaling and root planing, crown lengthening, or cosmetic procedures like veneers or smile makeovers, depending on your overall treatment goals.
Book Your Gingivectomy Consultation Today
Healthy gums are the foundation of a beautiful, functional smile. Whether you need to treat gum disease, reshape your smile, or prepare for a dental restoration, a Gingivectomy at Affinity Dental Clinics can help you achieve your goals with safety and confidence.
Our team of Oral Surgeons is here to guide you every step of the way—from diagnosis and treatment to recovery and long-term care.
Let us help you preserve what matters most—your health, your smile, and your future.
Book an Appointment
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Frequently Asked Questions
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