Do you have large, overgrown gums that impact your happiness with your smile? You may have what many call a “gummy smile,” where extra gum tissue makes your teeth appear smaller or boxy. A gingivectomy is a popular cosmetic dental surgery that reduces the appearance of a gummy smile by removing extra and overgrown gum tissue. The procedure is also commonly performed to treat advanced gum disease. If you are interested in changing the appearance of your smile, but have been apprehensive about oral surgery, a gingivectomy may be a good option for you.
How Long is a Gingivectomy Procedure?
Typically, a gingivectomy procedure will take between 40 and 60 minutes, depending on how many teeth need treatment and whether additional bone reshaping is needed. Treating a single area of the mouth is usually quick, while treating several teeth may take longer and may require more than one visit. Overall, how long the procedure will take really depends on the extent of the treatment plan that you have developed with your dental provider.
How Long Does It Take to Heal from a Gingivectomy?
On average, full recovery from a gingivectomy is about 6 to 8 weeks, with most of the discomfort going away after the first few days. Below is a timeline of the recovery process after a gingivectomy:
- First 24 Hours: Immediately following the procedure, it is common to have mild bleeding, swelling, and numbness. As the anesthesia wears off, you can expect the pain to be manageable and treatable with over-the-counter pain medication. Your provider will give you a list of foods to eat and what habits to avoid, such as using a straw. It is also encouraged to rest as much as possible immediately following the procedure.
- Days 2 to 3: For the first few days after the procedure, swelling, soreness, and redness should be expected. Your provider may recommend that you start a saltwater rinse to help reduce bacteria. Brushing your teeth in the treated area should also be avoided in these early days.
- Days 4 to 7: As you approach the end of the week, swelling and soreness in the gum tissue will improve. You can start to brush the nearby teeth, but you should still avoid touching the treated site and chewing hard foods. It is important to remember that the treated tissue is still healing even if your pain or discomfort is gone.
- Week 2: By the second week, most people feel better, and the appearance of their gums has improved.
- Weeks 3 to 4: At this point, healing will continue to move forward with most adults experiencing little to no discomfort. Additionally, they can start to return to normal eating and daily oral hygiene, focusing on being gentle.
- Weeks 6 to 8: It may surprise most adults to learn that full healing happens after 6 to 8 weeks. The gum tissue should return to looking smooth and healthy, and any tenderness or sensitivity should be mild or fully gone.
Overall, the gingivectomy is a minimally invasive and relatively pain-free cosmetic dental treatment procedure to improve the appearance of oversized gums. If you are interested in the procedure, it is a good time to schedule a visit with your provider to discuss what you can expect in terms of pain and recovery during the procedure.
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