Gingivectomy in Miami, FL

A gingivectomy is a procedure to remove excess or overgrown gum tissue. It is performed to treat gum disease that does not respond to non-surgical treatment, correct a gummy smile, or improve oral hygiene by eliminating deep pockets where bacteria accumulate. The procedure restores both gum health and smile aesthetics.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you will feel pressure but not pain during treatment. Post-procedure soreness is mild and typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to normal activities within 1 to 2 days.

Initial healing occurs within 1 to 2 weeks, with complete tissue healing taking 3 to 4 weeks. During recovery, we recommend a soft diet, avoiding spicy or crunchy foods, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as directed. The final aesthetic results are visible once healing is complete.

In most cases, gum tissue does not grow back to its previous excessive state after a properly performed gingivectomy. However, certain medications or underlying conditions can cause gum overgrowth to recur. We will monitor your gum health at follow-up visits and recommend lifestyle or medication adjustments if needed.

Absolutely. Patients with a gummy smile — where excess gum tissue makes teeth appear short — experience a dramatic cosmetic improvement after gingivectomy. By reshaping the gumline to expose more of the natural tooth, the procedure creates a more balanced, proportionate smile. Many patients combine this with teeth whitening or veneers for a complete smile transformation.