Gum Appearance and Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy is a highly effective solution for treating gum disease, though it is usually reserved as a last resort after, less invasive treatments have been exhausted. Your periodontist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your gums and teeth to determine if you may be a candidate for a gingivectomy or similar procedure. This assessment will involve your periodontist measuring the depths of your gum pockets, which ideally should measure around 2-3 mm. If your pockets exceed this depth, this may be an indication of gum disease.
Gingivectomy (pocket reduction surgery) addresses gum disease by carefully folding back the gums, which allows them to access and eradicate harmful bacteria from the affected areas. Following this, the procedure includes smoothing and repairing any damaged or irregular bone structure related to gum loss.
To improve your chances of a successful procedure and reduce your risk of developing complications, be sure to strictly adhere to the post-operative care instructions provided. These guidelines, which will be discussed both prior to and following your procedure, may include the following recommendations:
- Avoid smoking or the use of straws until you have completed your healing process, which typically takes seven to ten days.
- Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed until the medication is fully completed.
- Manage pain with over-the-counter medications or those provided by your dentist.
- Limit physical activity for two to three days post-treatment to facilitate recovery.
- Opt for a soft-food diet featuring items such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or soups
- Ice packs can help alleviate swelling in affected areas.
How to Reduce Your Risk of Developing Gum Disease
While gingivectomy has proven to be effective in addressing gum disease, it is also important that you maintain good oral hygiene practices and a healthy lifestyle following your procedure to prevent future occurrences. To lesson your risk of developing gum disease, implement the following strategies:
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day.
- Eat a balanced diet, limiting the intake of sugary and starchy foods and beverages.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups
- Limit or completely avoid alcohol consumption.
- Quit or avoid smoking and other tobacco products
Regular dental cleanings and examinations, spaced every six months, are essential for your periodontist to monitor your oral health effectively and ensure the non-recurrence of gum disease.
Gingivectomy Treatment Alternatives
While gingivectomy is effective at addressing gum disease, there are several less invasive alternatives that may also be suitable for your needs, particularly if your gum disease is caught in its early stages. Antibiotic treatments may be sufficient to address initial gum disease as would a scaling and root planing procedure. This minimally invasive technique effectively removes the bacteria beneath the gums by scraping away deposits and then smoothing the roots which limits bacterial growth and allows the gums to have time to heal.
For more advanced cases of gum disease, however, you may require a soft tissue graft to address gum recession, or a bone graft if deterioration of the jawbone is present.