Healthy, Comfortable Gum Treatment
Gingivectomy in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Restore diseased or overgrown gums with gentle gingivectomy care at Wauwatosa Dental Arts.
A gingivectomy is a precise procedure that removes infected or excess gum tissue so your teeth and gums can be healthier and easier to clean. At Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, we focus on comfort, clear communication, and predictable results. Our team will explain every step, answer your questions, and design a plan that fits your smile and your schedule.
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy at Wauwatosa Dental Arts
A gingivectomy reshapes or removes gum tissue to eliminate deep pockets, reduce infection, and improve the look of your smile. At Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, we use modern techniques and a gentle approach so treatment feels as simple and stress-free as possible while protecting your long-term oral health.
What Is a Gingivectomy?
During a gingivectomy, your dentist carefully removes a small amount of gum tissue around selected teeth. This may be recommended when gum disease has created deep pockets that trap bacteria, or when excess gum tissue creates a “gummy” smile or makes cleaning difficult. By reshaping the gums, we make it easier to keep your teeth clean and reduce your risk of future infection or bone loss.
- Removes Diseased Gum Tissue Helps control moderate to advanced gum disease by reducing bacterial pockets.
- Improves Gum Shape Refines uneven or bulky gums for a more balanced and confident smile.
- Makes Cleaning Easier Shallower gum pockets are easier to reach with your toothbrush and floss.
- Protects Supporting Bone Healthier gums help defend the bone that keeps your teeth stable.
What to Expect During Treatment
Before we begin, we thoroughly examine your gums, review X-rays, and discuss your medical history to confirm that a gingivectomy is the right choice. On the day of your visit, the area is numbed with local anesthetic so you stay comfortable. Your dentist then precisely removes and reshapes the gum tissue, and may place a protective dressing over the area while it heals.
- Comfortable local anesthesia to numb the treatment area
- Focused instruments for precise gum reshaping
- Thorough cleaning of the treated sites to reduce bacteria
- Clear post-visit instructions to support smooth healing
Healing, Results, and Long-Term Care
Mild soreness or swelling is common for a few days after a gingivectomy and is usually managed with over-the-counter pain relief and a soft diet. As the gums heal, you should notice that your teeth are easier to clean and your smile looks more even. We will schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing, adjust your home care routine, and provide ongoing periodontal maintenance if needed.
- Simple Home Care Rinse as directed, brush gently around the area, and avoid hard or spicy foods until comfort returns.
- Personalized Maintenance Plan We tailor your cleaning schedule and at-home tips to keep your gums healthy.
- Support for Your Overall Health Healthier gums may support better overall wellness and reduce inflammation in the body.
If you have bleeding gums, deep pockets, or are unhappy with the shape of your gums, our team is here to help. Call (414) 462-3160 to schedule a gingivectomy consultation at Wauwatosa Dental Arts and learn whether this treatment is right for you.
Gingivectomy: Frequently Asked Questions
- What problems can a gingivectomy treat?
- A gingivectomy is often recommended for patients with gum disease that has created deep pockets around the teeth, or for those with excess gum tissue that traps plaque or creates a “gummy” smile. By removing and reshaping the gums, we can reduce bacteria, improve appearance, and make daily cleaning easier.
- Is a gingivectomy painful?
- During the procedure, the gums are thoroughly numbed with local anesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Some soreness afterward is normal, similar to a scraped knee, and is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and the care instructions we provide.
- How long does it take to heal after a gingivectomy?
- Initial healing typically takes about one to two weeks, although complete maturation of the gum tissue can take a bit longer. Most patients return to work or school within a day or two and gradually resume their normal diet as tenderness improves.
- Will my gums look different after the procedure?
- Yes, one of the goals of a gingivectomy is to create a healthier, more balanced gum line. After healing, many patients notice that their teeth look more proportionate and that their smile appears less “gummy.” We plan your treatment carefully to create a natural, harmonious result.
- How should I care for my mouth after a gingivectomy?
- We will send you home with detailed instructions, which usually include eating soft foods for a few days, avoiding very hot or spicy foods, and gently brushing and flossing around the area as it heals. Using any prescribed rinses and keeping follow-up appointments at Wauwatosa Dental Arts helps support smooth healing.
- Is a gingivectomy covered by dental insurance?
- Coverage depends on your specific plan and whether the procedure is considered medically necessary to treat gum disease or primarily cosmetic. Our team can review your benefits, submit any necessary documentation, and provide an estimate so you know what to expect before treatment.
- Am I a good candidate for a gingivectomy?
- You may be a candidate if you have gum disease that has not fully responded to non-surgical therapy, deep pockets that are hard to clean, or excess gum tissue affecting your smile. The best way to know is to schedule an evaluation at Wauwatosa Dental Arts in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, where we will examine your gums, discuss your goals, and recommend the most appropriate care.
- How do I get started?
- If you are concerned about bleeding gums, gum disease, or the appearance of your smile, we encourage you to contact our office. Call (414) 462-3160 to schedule a gingivectomy consultation with our caring team at Wauwatosa Dental Arts and take the next step toward healthier gums.
“Amazing Team and Experience”
Wauwatosa Dental Arts is fantastic! The staff is warm, the office is beautiful, and my cleaning was quick and comfortable. Dr. Rosen was friendly and explained everything clearly. Highly recommend!
“Super Professional and Caring”
Great dental office in Wauwatosa. Everyone was kind, honest, and professional. My visit was painless, and they made me feel completely at ease. I’m glad I found this place!
Schedule Appointment
Call us at (414) 462-3160 or visit us at 11600 W North Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226.
