Gingivoplasty, Gingivectomy

Gingivoplasty is a procedure in which gums are surgically reshaped and re-contoured for cosmetic, physiological, or functional purposes. 

Gingivoplasty is usually done in combination with gingivectomy under local anesthesia. The term comes from gingiva meaning gums and the word ending -plasty meaning to reshape. Many patients have a gummy smile which is caused by excessive and overgrown gum tissue. Excess gum tissue can usually be removed to reveal a beautiful smile underneath.

After a gingivectomy procedure, the gingivoplasty procedure thins the remaining gums tissue so the tissue looks natural and pleasing.

Gingivectomy is the surgical procedure done under local anesthesia to remove and reshape loose, diseased gum tissue to get rid of pockets between teeth and gums. The indications for gingivectomy are:

• Elimination of suprabony pockets regardless of their depth, if the pocket wall is fibrous and firm. 
• Elimination of gingival enlargements 
• Removal of suprabony periodontal abscesses

A pack which covers the surgical site is usually applied to protect the site from any injury.