Gingivectomy

One of the first surgical procedures used in periodontics, the gingivectomy consists of removal of part of the gum tissue. This procedure is useful when there has been an overgrowth of tissue, as in dilantin hyperplasia, or when a pocket has formed without bone problems. The excess tissue is cut away to remove the pocket, so the patient and hygienist can more easily clean the gum and tooth.

The gingivectomy is only done when the bone does not have to be accessed, and when there is adequate "hard" gum. In most cases that are treated by a periodontist, the bone itself has become involved, and unless that bone is treated, the case is not successful. In these circumstances, the gingivectomy is not appropriate. In addition, it is necessary to have a margin of "hard" or keratinized gum (see Gum Recession), and if the gingivectomy would remove all the hard gum, it should not be used. Click here to see a Clinical Case.