Periodontoloji

Gingivectomy

Name: Gingivectomy
Creator: Dore Medical Editorial Board
Published: 2026-05-11

The controlled removal of excess gum tissue to make teeth appear longer and more proportionate. This is the most common method for treating a gummy smile.

Medically reviewed. Last updated: May 13, 2026.

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What Is Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that removes excess gum tissue. "Gingiva" means gum, and "ectomy" means removal. As the name suggests, the goal is to reshape excess gum tissue. It can be performed for both aesthetic and health reasons. Aesthetic gingivectomy is part of smile design, while medically necessary gingivectomy is used to treat gum overgrowth or remove inflamed gum tissue. The procedure can be performed with traditional surgery or laser in the clinic.

The conditions requiring gingivectomy vary widely. In gummy smile, excess gum tissue covering the teeth is removed, making the teeth appear longer and more aesthetic. Teeth that appear short may actually be the proper size but look short due to excess gum tissue—gingivectomy reveals their true length. During orthodontic treatment, some patients develop gum overgrowth (hyperplasia) that makes brushing difficult and leads to infection—gingivectomy removes this tissue. Gum overgrowth caused by medication side effects is also treated with gingivectomy. In advanced periodontitis cases, it can be used to clean periodontal pockets.

An examination is performed before treatment, and if needed, digital smile design simulates the expected results. If active gum inflammation is present, it must be treated first because surgery on inflamed tissue can fail. Dental scaling is completed beforehand. Local anesthesia is applied, and excess gum tissue is removed with a laser or surgical instruments. Laser gingivectomy results in minimal bleeding and a shorter healing time. Traditional surgery allows for more precise contouring. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on its scope.

The healing process is usually fast. Mild sensitivity and swelling may occur in the first few days—following your dentist's care instructions speeds healing. A soft diet is recommended for the first week. Smoking and hot beverages should be avoided in the first few days. After aesthetic gingivectomy, treatment typically progresses to other smile design stages—laminate veneers, zirconia crowns, or bonding may be used to complete the design. For more comprehensive gum reshaping procedures, see the gum contouring page.

Treatment Process

Alternative Treatments

Risks and Complications

Gingivectomy is a commonly performed procedure in dentistry with a proven safety record. It is performed under local anesthesia and the vast majority of cases are completed without issues. Laser-assisted application has made the healing process even more comfortable. However, as with any procedure involving gum tissue intervention, there are certain possible situations to be aware of.

🔄 Gum Tissue Regrowth

This is the most well-known and most frequently asked about risk of gingivectomy. Partial regrowth of the removed gum tissue is possible in some cases. This situation is particularly seen in patients where the underlying bone level is high (bone positioned high together with the gum tissue). Regrowth is generally not complete, but a slight regression of the gum level from the planned position may occur. In cases of significant regrowth, a simple correction session is sufficient. Careful evaluation of bone level during treatment planning helps identify this risk in advance.

🩸 Bleeding

Gum tissue is rich in blood vessels, so bleeding is expected during and after the procedure. In laser-assisted gingivectomy, bleeding is significantly less compared to the conventional scalpel method because the laser seals blood vessels during cutting (coagulation effect). Mild oozing is normal during the first few hours; significant bleeding is very rare.

⚡ Temporary Sensitivity

After gingivectomy, the tooth surface previously covered by gum tissue becomes exposed. Temporary sensitivity, especially to hot and cold, may be felt on this surface during the first few days. Sensitivity decreases within a few weeks as the gum tissue heals. Sensitivity-reducing toothpastes support this process.

⚖️ Asymmetry

Making gum levels perfectly symmetrical is one of the main goals of cosmetic gingivectomy. However, during the healing process, gum tissue may not heal at the same rate in every area and slight asymmetry may occur. Minor asymmetries are generally unnoticeable; in cases of noticeable differences, a simple correction session can be planned. Detailed smile analysis and careful planning before treatment minimizes this risk.

😣 Temporary Pain and Discomfort

Mild pain and discomfort for a few days after gingivectomy is normal. With laser applications, this discomfort is generally milder compared to conventional surgical methods. The pain relievers recommended by your dentist are sufficient. Pain typically decreases noticeably within 2-3 days.

🦠 Infection Risk (Very Rare)

As with other surgical procedures, the risk of infection after gingivectomy is theoretically present, but very rare in practice. The bactericidal (bacteria-killing) effect of laser application additionally reduces the risk of infection. Patient compliance with postoperative care instructions is the most important protective factor.

How Are These Risks Managed at Doredent?

Bone level evaluation: The underlying bone level is carefully evaluated during gingivectomy planning. In cases where the bone level is high, the risk of regrowth is identified in advance and explained to the patient.
Specialist application: At Doredent, gingivectomy is performed by a periodontology specialist.
Laser-assisted application: In suitable cases, laser is used to achieve less bleeding, faster healing, and a more comfortable process.
Detailed smile analysis: For cosmetic gingivectomy, gum levels, symmetry, tooth length, and smile line are planned together.
Postoperative follow-up: The healing process is monitored through regular checkups and a correction session is planned if necessary.

When Is Gingivectomy Needed?

Gingivectomy can be performed for both aesthetic and periodontal (functional) purposes. Not every case of excess gum tissue requires gingivectomy; the decision is based on gum health, tissue structure, bone level, and the patient's concerns.

😁 Gummy Smile Correction

When you smile and your gums show more than your teeth (gummy smile), gingivectomy is the most common aesthetic solution. Excess gum tissue makes your teeth appear short and your smile look unbalanced. Gingivectomy removes the excess gum tissue, revealing the true length of your teeth.

Effective solution for gummy smile caused by excess gum tissue.
Reveals the true length of your teeth.
Your smile line becomes more balanced and proportional.
If gummy smile is caused by skeletal issues, gingivectomy alone is not sufficient.

📏 Gum Level Correction (Asymmetry)

When the gum levels of your front teeth are uneven, it disrupts smile symmetry. When one tooth's gum line is higher or lower than the others, that tooth appears shorter or longer. Gingivectomy evens out gum levels, creating a symmetrical smile line.

Even small level differences significantly affect smile perception.
Laser technology allows millimeter-precision correction.
Gum levels are corrected before placing veneers or crowns.
Can also be performed as a fine-tuning step after orthodontic treatment.

🦷 Short Tooth Appearance (Altered Passive Eruption)

In some patients, teeth appear short, but the tooth itself is actually normal length and hidden beneath excess gum tissue. This condition is called "altered passive eruption": the tooth has fully erupted, but the gum tissue has not receded sufficiently. Gingivectomy removes the excess gum tissue, revealing the tooth's true length.

The tooth is normal length but hidden under excess gum tissue.
Gingivectomy lengthens the appearance of your teeth.
Your smile line becomes more balanced and proportional.
Most commonly performed on upper front teeth.

💊 Medication-Induced Gum Overgrowth (Hyperplasia)

Certain medications (especially anti-epileptic drugs, immunosuppressants, and some blood pressure medications) can cause excessive gum tissue growth (hyperplasia). Enlarged gum tissue can partially or completely cover your teeth, making oral hygiene difficult and creating aesthetic concerns. Gingivectomy removes the excess tissue, restoring your gums to their normal contour.

Phenytoin, cyclosporine, and nifedipine are the most common causes.
If you continue taking the medication, hyperplasia may recur.
If medication substitution is possible, consult with your physician.
Good oral hygiene reduces the severity of hyperplasia.

🔧 Preparation for Restorative Treatment

If you are planning veneers, zirconia crowns, or bonding and your gum levels are uneven, gingivectomy is performed first to achieve symmetry. Restorations placed without correcting the gum line will not achieve optimal aesthetic results. The correct sequence: gingivectomy first, then restorative treatment after gum healing (4-6 weeks).

Tooth lengths are equalized before placing crowns or veneers.
Restorative treatment is not performed before gum healing is complete.
Proper sequencing determines the quality of your final aesthetic result.
Planned together as part of gum contouring (pink aesthetics).

🧹 Periodontal Pocket Reduction

In some periodontal cases, gum pockets do not adequately shrink after curettage, and excess soft tissue forming the pocket needs surgical correction. Gingivectomy removes the excess gum tissue, reducing pocket depth and improving the area's cleanability.

Considered when adequate healing is not achieved after curettage.
Excess soft tissue is surgically corrected.
Improves cleanability and reduces the risk of recurrence.
Performed for periodontal health purposes, independent of aesthetics.

After the Procedure

Gingivectomy is performed under local anesthesia and is usually completed in a single session. The healing process varies depending on the method used: healing after laser gingivectomy is generally faster and more comfortable than with the traditional method.

First 24 Hours

Until the anesthesia wears off: The local anesthetic effect lasts 1-2 hours. You should not eat during this time and avoid biting your lips or cheeks.
Bleeding: Bleeding is minimal with laser gingivectomy. With the traditional method, slight oozing is normal for the first few hours. Significant bleeding is very rare.
Diet: Soft and lukewarm foods are preferred on the first day. Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, and hard foods. Avoid chewing on the treated side.
Smoking: Smoking slows healing. Do not smoke for at least 48 hours, ideally for one week.
Oral care: Do not brush the treated area on the first day. Use the antiseptic rinse (chlorhexidine) recommended by your dentist.

First Week: Healing

Sensitivity: Sensitivity in the treated area is normal for a few days. You may notice hot-cold sensitivity on the exposed tooth surfaces. Sensitivity typically decreases within a week.
Gum appearance: Your gums may appear reddish and sensitive during the healing process. This is normal; they usually begin returning to a pink, healthy appearance within 1-2 weeks.
Brushing: Starting on the second day, gently brush the treated area with a very soft-bristled toothbrush.
Pain: Pain after gingivectomy is generally mild. Even less discomfort is expected with laser treatment. Pain relievers recommended by your dentist are usually sufficient.

Laser Gingivectomy Advantage

Less bleeding: The laser minimizes bleeding by sealing blood vessels (coagulation) during cutting.
Faster healing: Tissue cut with a laser generally heals faster than tissue cut with a scalpel.
Reduced need for sutures: Many laser gingivectomy cases do not require stitches.
Less postoperative discomfort: Pain and swelling are generally milder compared to the traditional method.
Bactericidal effect: The laser light's ability to kill bacteria further reduces the risk of infection.

Healing Timeline

Laser gingivectomy: Your gums typically heal substantially within 7-10 days. Healing is complete in 2-3 weeks.
Traditional gingivectomy: Healing takes 2-3 weeks. If sutures were placed, they are removed in 7-10 days.
Stabilization of aesthetic result: Complete stabilization of the gum level and finalization of the aesthetic outcome can take 4-6 weeks.
Transition to restorative treatment: If veneers, crowns, or bonding are planned, these treatments begin after your gums have fully healed (4-6 weeks).

Expected Improvements

Teeth appear longer and more proportional: Removing excess gum tissue reveals the true size of your teeth.
Smile line becomes more symmetrical: Uneven gum levels are evened out.
Gummy smile is reduced or eliminated: Significant improvement in gummy smile cases caused by excess gum tissue.
Improved cleanability: In periodontal cases, correcting gum pockets makes oral hygiene easier.

How Permanent Are Gingivectomy Results? Gingivectomy results are mostly permanent. However, in cases where the underlying bone level is high, partial regrowth of gum tissue is possible. In drug-induced hyperplasia cases, growth may recur if medication use continues. The most important factors supporting permanence are: regular oral hygiene, professional dental scaling every 6 months, and regular check-ups. At Doredent, we monitor your healing process after gingivectomy and schedule a touch-up session if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is the controlled removal of excess or problematic gum tissue. It can be performed for both aesthetic purposes (correcting the smile line, treating gummy smile, revealing tooth length) and functional reasons (correcting periodontal pockets, improving hygiene). Gingivectomy is a specific procedure within gum contouring (pink aesthetics). Pink aesthetics is a broader concept that includes gingivectomy as well as gum grafting, level correction, and preparation before restorative treatment. At Doredent, gingivectomy is performed by a periodontology specialist. In suitable cases, laser-assisted application is preferred to achieve less bleeding, faster healing, and a more comfortable process.

Is gingivectomy painful?

Because gingivectomy is performed under local anesthesia, you will not feel pain during the procedure. A topical anesthetic gel is applied before the injection to minimize discomfort from the needle. Post-treatment discomfort is usually mild and decreases significantly within 2-3 days. In laser gingivectomy, postoperative discomfort is even less compared to the conventional method. The pain relievers recommended by your dentist are usually sufficient. You may experience hot-cold sensitivity on the exposed tooth surface during the first few days; this is temporary and decreases as the gums heal. Most patients report that gingivectomy is a much more comfortable experience than they expected.

Does the gum grow back after gingivectomy?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions about gingivectomy and requires the most honest answer. The short answer: partial regrowth is possible in some cases, but in most cases the result is permanent. The risk of regrowth is higher in two situations: in cases where the underlying bone level is high (if the bone is positioned high along with the gum, the gum removed by gingivectomy may tend to grow back over the bone) and in cases of drug-induced gingival hyperplasia (if medication use continues, growth may recur). At Doredent, bone level is carefully evaluated during gingivectomy planning. In cases where the bone level is high, the risk of regrowth is explained to the patient in advance. If significant regrowth occurs, it can be resolved with a simple correction session. In cases where bone level is normal, the risk of regrowth is very low and the result is permanent.

Is laser gingivectomy better than the conventional method?

Laser gingivectomy offers some important advantages: less bleeding (the laser seals blood vessels during cutting), faster healing, less postoperative discomfort, reduced need for sutures, and a bactericidal effect (reduces infection risk). However, laser is not the ideal method for every case and does not completely replace conventional surgical technique. In some cases, more precise and controlled cutting may be required with a conventional scalpel. The laser is the tool itself; the main factor determining the outcome is the dentist's experience and treatment planning. At Doredent, laser-assisted gingivectomy is preferred in suitable cases. Which method will be used is determined by the periodontology specialist based on the clinical requirements of the case.

How long does gingivectomy take?

The procedure time varies depending on the number of teeth to be treated and the scope of the case. Gum level correction on a few teeth usually takes 20-30 minutes. More comprehensive gummy smile correction or level equalization on multiple teeth may take 45-60 minutes. Healing time varies depending on the method used: in laser gingivectomy, the gums heal largely within 7-10 days, while the conventional method may require 2-3 weeks. Complete stabilization of the aesthetic result takes 4-6 weeks. Gingivectomy is usually completed in a single session. If restorative treatments such as veneers, crowns, or bonding are planned, these treatments are started after the gums have completely healed (4-6 weeks).

Is gummy smile corrected only with gingivectomy?

No. Gummy smile (excessive gum visibility when smiling) can have multiple causes, and the treatment approach varies according to the cause. Gingivectomy is only effective in gummy smile cases caused by excess gum tissue. Possible causes of gummy smile and treatment approaches: gingivectomy is an effective solution for excess gum tissue or altered passive eruption. If the upper lip is overly mobile (hypermobile upper lip), gingivectomy alone is not sufficient; different approaches are required. If the upper jaw bone structure is positioned low (skeletal cause), orthognathic surgery evaluation may be necessary. At Doredent, we aim to correctly identify the cause in gummy smile treatment first. If the cause is excess gum tissue, gingivectomy is planned; if it is due to a different reason, the correct treatment option is honestly explained to the patient.

Can I get veneers or crowns after gingivectomy?

Yes, and this is actually a very commonly applied combination. In many patients, ideal smile aesthetics cannot be achieved by intervening only on the teeth (white aesthetics) or only on the gums (pink aesthetics); both need to be planned together. The correct sequence is as follows: first, gum levels are corrected and tooth lengths are equalized with gingivectomy, then after the gums have completely healed (4-6 weeks), veneers, zirconia crowns, or bonding is applied. This sequence is extremely important: restorations performed before gum healing do not achieve the desired level of marginal fit and aesthetic result. At Doredent, gingivectomy and restorative treatment are planned together; the two processes are not considered separately. Timing and sequencing are determined at the initial examination.

Will my teeth look too long after gingivectomy?

This concern is especially common in patients planning aesthetic gingivectomy. In properly planned gingivectomy, the goal is not to "lengthen" the teeth but to reveal the true tooth length hidden under the gums. The result is not that the teeth look longer, but that they look more proportional and balanced. In smile aesthetics, there is an ideal length-to-width ratio for teeth (usually 1:0.75-0.80 for upper central incisors). Gingivectomy is planned to achieve this ratio. When excess gum tissue is removed, the teeth approach this ideal ratio and the smile is perceived as much more balanced. At Doredent, a detailed smile analysis is performed before gingivectomy. Gum levels, tooth lengths, length-to-width ratios, and smile line are evaluated together. The expected result is clearly shown to the patient before the procedure.

Is gingivectomy permanent?

In most cases, yes, the gingivectomy result is permanent. However, permanence depends on two factors: the underlying bone level and whether the factor causing gum growth continues. In cases with normal bone level and gingivectomy performed due to excess gum tissue, the result is permanent. In altered passive eruption cases (tooth hidden under the gum), the tooth length revealed by gingivectomy is permanently maintained. Situations with risk of regrowth: if the underlying bone level is high (if the bone is positioned high along with the gum), the gum may partially grow back. In drug-induced hyperplasia cases, if medication use continues, growth recurs. In these cases, a correction session or medication change is evaluated. For long-term permanence: regular oral hygiene, professional dental scaling every 6 months, and regular check-ups are important.

Treatment Pricing

Pricing

Gingivectomy Pricing

At Doredent, we offer transparent pricing for our international patients. As every case is different, the final treatment cost depends on your individual evaluation.

The cost of Gingivectomy varies based on factors such as the number of areas treated, the scope of the case, and the technique used. For an accurate quote, a personalized assessment is recommended.

For pricing details, reach out via WhatsApp or book your initial consultation.

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