A gingivectomy is a common dental procedure that reshapes or removes part of the gum tissue. Dentists perform it to treat gum disease, improve oral health, or enhance the look of your smile.
If you’ve been told you need one—or you’re simply researching—you may want to know what the procedure feels like, how it works, and what recovery looks like. This guide walks you through the full process in simple, clear language.
What is gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that removes extra or damaged gum tissue. Dentists use it to:
- Remove infected or deep gum pockets caused by gum disease
- Reshape uneven gum lines
- Expose more of a tooth for cosmetic improvement
- Give better access for future dental work
During the procedure, the dentist trims the gum tissue using either a scalpel or a dental laser. The goal is to create healthier, more manageable gums that fit properly around your teeth.
Who’s a candidate for gingivectomy?
Not everyone needs a gingivectomy. Dentists usually recommend it in two situations: treatment for gum disease or elective cosmetic improvement.
Gingivectomy for gum disease
If you have advanced gum disease (periodontitis), your gums may pull away from your teeth and create deep pockets. These pockets trap bacteria, food, and plaque. When cleaning alone cannot reach the bottom of these pockets, a gingivectomy may be needed.
A gingivectomy helps by:
- Removing infected tissue
- Reducing the depth of the pockets
- Making it easier to clean around the teeth
- Preventing further gum and bone damage
This version of the procedure is done to protect long-term oral health.
Elective gingivectomy
Some people choose a gingivectomy for cosmetic reasons. This is often done to fix a “gummy smile,” where too much gum shows when you smile. Elective gingivectomy can:
- Make teeth look longer
- Create a more even gum line
- Improve the overall look of your smile
Cosmetic gingivectomy is safe, simple, and often paired with other dental treatments like veneers or crowns.
What to expect during the procedure
A gingivectomy is typically done in a dental office and takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are treated.
Here’s what usually happens:
- Evaluation and planning
The dentist examines your gums, measures pocket depth, and takes X-rays if needed. - Numbing the area
Local anesthesia is used so you feel no pain during the procedure. - Removing gum tissue
Using a scalpel or laser, the dentist trims away the targeted gum tissue.
- A scalpel cuts cleanly and precisely.
- A laser removes tissue while sealing blood vessels to reduce bleeding.
- Shaping the gums
The dentist shapes the remaining gum tissue to create a smooth, natural look. - Placing dressings
A protective dressing may be placed over the gums to help healing.
Most patients feel pressure but no pain during the procedure. You can go home the same day.
How do scalpel and laser procedures compare
Both scalpel and laser gingivectomy methods are effective. The choice usually depends on the dentist’s preference and your specific condition.
Scalpel gingivectomy
Pros:
- Precise manual control
- Often used for more complex cases
- Usually costs less
Cons:
- More bleeding
- May require stitches
- Slightly longer healing time
Laser gingivectomy
Pros:
- Minimal bleeding
- Faster healing
- Lower chance of infection
- Often more comfortable
Cons:
- May cost more
- Not ideal for very deep pockets or severe cases
Most dentists today use both tools depending on the situation. If comfort and quick healing are priorities, many patients prefer laser treatment.
What’s recovery like?
Recovery from a gingivectomy is generally quick. Most people return to normal activities within a day and feel fully healed in one to two weeks.
The first few hours
You may notice:
- Numbness from anesthesia
- Slight bleeding
- Mild discomfort
- Swelling or tenderness
Follow your dentist’s instructions closely, including:
- Avoid hot foods until numbness wears off
- Do not brush the area for the first day
- Take recommended pain relievers
- Use ice packs if swelling starts
The next few days
As healing begins, you may experience:
- Soreness around the gums
- Slight bleeding when rinsing
- Sensitivity to certain foods
Your dentist may suggest:
- Soft foods like yogurt, soup, and eggs
- Warm saltwater rinses after 24 hours
- Avoiding spicy, crunchy, or acidic foods
- Gentle brushing around the treated site
Most discomfort fades within 48–72 hours.
Long-term
Full healing usually takes 1–2 weeks, but the gum shape continues to mature for several weeks. Proper brushing, flossing, and dental visits help maintain the results.
A successful gingivectomy can:
- Stop gum disease from progressing
- Create an even, healthy gum line
- Improve your smile
- Make oral hygiene easier
When to see your dentist
Contact your dentist if you notice:
- Heavy or long-lasting bleeding
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, bad smell)
- Gum tissue pulling away from teeth
- Dressings that fall off too early
These issues are rare, but getting help early ensures smooth healing.
How much does gingivectomy cost?
Costs vary depending on:
- How many teeth or areas need treatment
- The severity of gum disease
- Whether a scalpel or laser is used
- Location and clinic fees
- Whether it’s medical (treatment) or cosmetic
If the procedure is required for gum disease, insurance may cover part of the cost.
Cosmetic gingivectomy is usually not covered.
Your dentist can give you a clear estimate before the procedure.
How do gingivectomy and gingivoplasty compare?
These two procedures sound similar but serve different purposes.
Gingivectomy
- Removes diseased or extra gum tissue
- Treats gum disease or corrects gummy smiles
- Focuses on cutting and reducing gum height
Gingivoplasty
- Reshapes the gum for a natural contour
- Often done after trimming or where gums look bulky
- Focuses on smoothing and sculpting
In many cases, dentists perform both procedures together—first removing tissue (gingivectomy), then sculpting it (gingivoplasty) for the best cosmetic and functional result.
Final Thoughts
A gingivectomy is a safe and effective procedure for improving gum health and enhancing your smile. Whether you need it to treat gum disease or want to reshape your gums for cosmetic reasons, understanding what to expect can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Talk with your dentist about your goals, the type of treatment recommended, and the recovery plan. With the right care, a gingivectomy can provide long-lasting, healthy results.