Gingivectomy

Remove excess gum tissue to reveal natural tooth size and restore gum health.
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What is a gingivectomy?

The gum tissue can be very thick and large covering the tooth surface making the teeth look short. This can happen because of medications, bone that extends too close to the surface of the teeth, or inflammation due to gum disease.

A gingivectomy is a periodontal procedure that eliminates excess gum tissue. The term “gingivectomy” is derived from Latin: “gingiva” means gum tissue, “-ectomy” means to remove.

The following are some reasons a gingivectomy might be needed:

Cosmetics: To make the teeth look normal in size when the gum is covering too much of it, making the teeth look longer and more proportional.

Functional / Esthetics: To remove excess gum tissue (gingival overgrowth) that has formed as a result of certain drugs such as anti-seizure and organ-transplant medications, and certain high blood pressure medications.

Bone and gum health around the teeth: To shrink deep gum pockets. This procedure might require some bone work as well.

Signs you may need treatment

Gums Cover Too Much Of Teeth

Gum Overgrowth From Medications

Teeth Look Short / Gummy Smile

Deep Gum Pockets / Inflammation

What to expect

1

Diagnose

We assess gum thickness, medication history, and pocket depth to confirm excess tissue and need for removal.

2

Treat

Area is anesthetized. Excess gum tissue is removed with scalpel and sometimes rotary instruments or laser. In most cases no sutures are required.

3

Restore

Surgical sites will be sore for 24-48 hours, medication provided for comfort. A week follow-up ensures proper healing and proportional tooth display.

Common questions

Why do my teeth look short?
Because thick gum tissue is covering too much of tooth surface — can be due to medications, bone close to surface, or gum disease inflammation.
Local anesthesia during procedure — mild soreness 24-48 hours after, managed with medication. No stitches in most cases.
Gingivectomy removes only gum tissue; crown lengthening may also involve bone removal to expose more tooth for function or restoration.
Yes — anti-seizure, organ-transplant, and certain blood pressure medications can cause gingival overgrowth requiring gingivectomy.
Sore 1-2 days, follow-up in one week. Gums heal quickly to reveal longer, more proportional teeth.