Gingivectomy in Prairie Village, KS | Oral & Facial Surgery Associates
Advanced gum disease causes loose tissue around the teeth. Eventually, nonsurgical treatments may not work, and the risk of tooth loss increases.
Gingivectomy, the removal of diseased gum tissue, can restore your oral health and protect your teeth.
What Is a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess or diseased gum tissue. It is one of the most common treatments for gum disease that has not responded to other approaches, such as professional cleanings or scaling and root planing. Your oral surgeon may also recommend a gingivectomy for cosmetic reasons, such as correcting a “gummy smile” where too much gum tissue makes your teeth appear short. A related procedure, called gingivoplasty, focuses on reshaping the gum line rather than removing tissue. In some cases, both procedures are performed together to achieve the best result. During your consultation at OFSA, your surgeon will explain which approach is right for your situation and answer any questions you may have.
When Is a Gingivectomy Needed?
There are several reasons your oral surgeon may recommend a gingivectomy:
- Deep gum pockets from gum disease: When periodontal disease creates pockets between the teeth and gums that do not improve with scaling and root planing, a gingivectomy can remove the infected tissue and help restore your oral health.
- Gum overgrowth: Some patients develop excess gum tissue due to genetics, hormonal changes, or certain medications such as blood pressure pills or seizure medications. This condition, known as gingival hyperplasia, can make it difficult to keep teeth clean.
- Gummy smile correction: If excess gum tissue makes your teeth look short or uneven, a gingivectomy can reveal more of your natural tooth structure for a more balanced smile.
- Access for dental restorations: In some cases, removing a small amount of gum tissue gives your dentist better access for crowns, fillings, or other restorative work.
Every patient is different. The OFSA team will evaluate your specific situation to determine whether a gingivectomy is the right option for you.
What to Expect During Your Gingivectomy at OFSA
At Oral & Facial Surgery Associates in Prairie Village, your comfort is our priority from start to finish. Here is a step-by-step overview of what a typical gingivectomy looks like:
- Consultation and planning: Your oral surgeon examines your gums, measures pocket depth, and discusses your goals and concerns.
- Numbing the area: Before the procedure begins, your surgeon will apply local anesthesia to numb the gums. Sedation options are also available for patients who feel anxious about dental procedures.
- Removing excess gum tissue: Using a scalpel or laser, your surgeon carefully removes the targeted gum tissue. Laser gingivectomy typically involves less bleeding and a faster recovery compared to the traditional approach.
- Reshaping the gum line: After the excess tissue is removed, the remaining gums are reshaped to create a clean, proportionate appearance.
- Protective dressing: A soft bandage or dressing is placed over the treated area to protect your gums as they heal.
The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much tissue needs to be addressed. Because OFSA’s board-certified oral surgeons specialize in surgical procedures of the mouth and face, you can feel confident you are in experienced hands.
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a gingivectomy is generally quick. Most patients can expect initial healing within about one week, though full healing may take a few additional weeks as the gum tissue continues to mature. Here are some tips to help your recovery go smoothly:
- Mild discomfort is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs can help manage any swelling or soreness.
- Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Soups, yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes are good choices. Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area.
- Follow OFSA’s post-operative instructions for oral hygiene. Gently brush unaffected areas with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and avoid brushing directly on the surgical site during the first few days.
- Avoid strenuous activity for a few days to support the healing process.
- Attend your follow-up appointment so your surgeon can check your progress.
When performed by a skilled oral surgeon, the results of a gingivectomy are typically permanent. Gum tissue that has been properly removed does not grow back.
Why Choose Oral & Facial Surgery Associates in Prairie Village?
When it comes to gum surgery, the level of training and experience behind the procedure matters. At OFSA, our board-certified oral surgeons bring specialized surgical expertise that goes beyond what a general dental practice provides. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons complete years of advanced, hospital-based residency training after dental school, with focused education in surgical techniques, sedation, and patient safety. Here is what sets OFSA apart:
- Decades of experience: OFSA has proudly served the Prairie Village and Johnson County community for over 50 years.
- Board-certified oral surgeons: Our surgeons, including Dr. Tyson Marrs, Dr. Kirk Collier, Dr. Michael Barber, Dr. Andrew Taliaferro, and Dr. Tyler King, maintain the highest standards of care through ongoing professional training.
- Sedation options: We offer sedation to keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure.
- Convenient location: Our Prairie Village office is located at 3700 W 83rd St #103, Prairie Village, KS 66208, serving patients from Lenexa, Olathe, Overland Park, and the greater Kansas City metro area.
- Flexible payment options: We accept most dental insurance plans. Financing through CareCredit may also be available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gingivectomy
- Is a gingivectomy painful?
Most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure thanks to local anesthesia. Sedation options are also available at OFSA for patients who experience dental anxiety. After the procedure, mild soreness is normal and can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- How long does it take to recover from a gingivectomy?
Initial healing usually takes about one week. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery.
- Does gum tissue grow back after a gingivectomy?
No. When a gingivectomy is performed by a qualified oral surgeon, the results are typically permanent. The removed gum tissue does not grow back.
- What is the difference between a gingivectomy and gingivoplasty?
A gingivectomy removes excess or diseased gum tissue, while a gingivoplasty reshapes the existing gum line. These procedures are sometimes performed together depending on the patient’s needs.
- How much does a gingivectomy cost?
The cost varies depending on the extent of the procedure and your individual treatment plan. Insurance may cover a gingivectomy when it is medically necessary to treat gum disease. Contact OFSA at (913) 381-5194 for a consultation and personalized cost estimate.
- Does insurance cover full mouth reconstruction?
Coverage varies by insurance plan and the specific procedures involved. Our team can help you understand your benefits and explore financing options like CareCredit.
Schedule Your Gingivectomy Consultation in Prairie Village
If gum disease, gum overgrowth, or a gummy smile is affecting your oral health or confidence, take the first step toward a healthier smile. The board-certified oral surgeons at Oral & Facial Surgery Associates are ready to evaluate your needs and create a treatment plan that is right for you. Call (913) 381-5194, contact us, or visit our Prairie Village office to schedule your consultation today. We look forward to welcoming you to our practice.
Gum Disease Is Surprisingly Common Among Americans
The Centers for Disease Control report that nearly 50% of all Americans have periodontitis, according to a 2012 study.
Gingivectomy can improve both the health and appearance of your smile.
If your doctor recommends gingivectomy, it is likely the only option.
When non-surgical treatments fail to resolve diseased gum tissue, gingivectomy is usually the only viable way of restoring periodontal health. Fortunately, modern dentistry makes the procedure virtually painless. After the procedure, you can begin a new phase of oral health care tailored to preventing the recurrence of gum disease.
If you do not attend regular checkups, or if you have symptoms of gum disease, talk to your dentist today. Gingivectomy may not be necessary yet, and with prompt attention, you may never need it.
What to expect during treatment.
Your surgeon will apply a local anesthetic to the treatment area. Sedation is usually also available if you feel anxious or have difficulty sitting comfortably.
Using a laser or scalpel, the dentist will incise and remove diseased tissue.
The surgeon will reposition healthy gum tissue around the tooth and may use sutures to hold it in place.
The gums typically heal within a couple of weeks. In the meantime, you must make special modifications to your brushing and flossing routine to avoid disturbing the treatment area.
But what will it cost?
Gingivectomy can cost from $200 to $400 per tooth. If you have dental insurance, your plan will likely contribute to at least a portion of the treatment. Meanwhile, it can prevent the need for much more costly treatment, such as dental implants and dentures, which can cost thousands of dollars.
Get to know us.
At Oral & Facial Surgery Associates, we know how to help you. Our board-certified surgeons and expert staff can provide the care you need to relieve the discomfort you feel.
