A gingivectomy is generally performed where there is excess tissue and the underlying bone is not in the way.

The Gingivectomy Procedure

Dr. Ting will begin the procedure by numbing a patient’s mouth with a local anesthesia. This will be followed by using a laser to remove excess gum tissue or damaged gum tissue. The laser allows Dr. Ting to be precise. This precise application also promotes more rapid healing and reduced pain.

After a Gingivectomy

Immediately following surgery, patients can return to normal activities as soon as the local anesthetic wears off.

For the vast majority of patients, Dr. Ting will prescribe eating soft foods and drinking cool or slightly warm liquids while heals your mouth. Most gingivectomies are simple with minimal discomfort. If there is any post-operative pain, patients are most likely to be advised to take ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) until the pain subsides.

To promote healing, Dr. Ting will also recommend that a patient stops using tobacco if they are a smoker. Using tobacco products reduces a body’s ability to fight infection and therefore delays the healing process.

Depending on how extensive the procedure is, it will take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks for a patient’s gums to heal. Gums should become pink and healthy after healing from the procedure.

Think Oral Implants and Periodontics serves patients in Paoli, Malvern, Berwyn and surrounding Pennsylvania communities.