Gum treatment is an integral part of keeping your mouth and teeth healthy. If you haven’t had gum treatment recently, now is a great time to book a check-up with Dr. Maryanne Butler or Dr. Amy Riffel. Or, if you need specific gum treatment, such as a gingivectomy, we can help in Parker and Glendale, Colorado.
With proper care, you can have healthy gums that improve and maintain your smile’s overall appearance and health! During your visit, your dentist will assess the health of your gums and discuss any treatment options that would work best in managing or reversing any signs of gum disease. The earlier we catch any signs of gum disease or any other gum issues, the easier they are to treat.
This blog post will discuss a gingivectomy, why you might need one, and how it can benefit you in the long run.
What is a Gingivectomy?
Have you ever been told by your dentist that you need a gingivectomy? If so, don’t worry. You’re not alone! Although it may sound scary, this procedure can help improve your oral health in many ways. We can help you understand our procedures and provide the best possible dental care.
A Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure involving removing a portion of the gum tissue surrounding a tooth. This process is done to treat excessive gum tissue growth, which can cause various oral health issues. During the procedure, our team will numb the affected area and make incisions in the gum tissue to remove the excess gum tissue. The procedure typically takes about an hour but can vary depending on the extent of the condition.
Why Might You Need One?
There are various reasons you might need a gingivectomy. The most common reason for a gingivectomy is removing overgrown gums. This can be done for cosmetic reasons when a person has a ‘gummy smile’ or for hygiene purposes when excess tissue makes it difficult to clean your teeth and gums properly. Excessive gum tissue growth, also called gingival hypertrophy, can create an unhealthy environment that harbors bacteria and can lead to gum disease. Similarly, excess gum tissue can make cleaning your teeth more difficult and cause you to be more prone to infection. Gingivectomy can also be done to reshape the gum tissue and give you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Benefits of a Gingivectomy:
A gingivectomy has many benefits, the primary being improved oral health. Removing the overgrown gum tissue makes it easier to maintain better oral hygiene and prevent gum disease. The procedure has cosmetic benefits also, as a gingivectomy can result in a more proportionate and symmetrical smile.
Additionally, it can help you feel more confident about your smile and reduce the risk of complications arising from gingivitis, which can lead to gum disease.
What to Expect After the Procedure:
After the gingivectomy procedure, it is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. But you can manage these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication and a proper diet. You must follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions, which include rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash, avoiding certain foods, and avoiding brushing and flossing during the initial 2-week healing period. After your first post-op, at about two weeks, we will provide you with an extra soft toothbrush to start gently brushing the gums, and by six weeks, you are back to normal brushing with your regular toothbrush of choice.
Gingivectomy in Parker, Colorado, and Glendale, Colorado
In conclusion, a gingivectomy may seem scary but it offers numerous benefits. Improving oral health to enhance your smile can make a big difference in your life.
Dental health is essential to maintaining overall wellness, and we are here to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile! If you have concerns about excessive gum tissue growth or want to reshape your gums for a beautiful smile, contact Periodontics of Cherry Creek and Mountainview Periodontics and Dental Implants to discuss this further. We will guide you through the process and ensure you receive the best possible dental care. Schedule an appointment today.
