Why Is Gum Surgery Needed?

Gum surgery may be recommended for:

• Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
• Receding gums
• Excessive or uneven gum tissue (gummy smile)
• Pocket reduction to clean deep infected areas
• Bone regeneration around teeth
• Improving the fit of crowns or bridges

🔍 Types of Gum Surgeries

1. Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)

• Gums are lifted to remove tartar and bacteria from deep pockets
• The gum is then sutured back snugly around the tooth

2. Gingivectomy

• Removes excess gum tissue (e.g., to correct a gummy smile or deep pockets)
• Often done with a laser for precision and quick healing

3. Gingivoplasty

• Reshapes healthy gum tissue for a more natural appearance
• Often combined with gingivectomy

4. Soft Tissue Graft (Gum Grafting)

• Treats gum recession by grafting tissue from the palate or donor source
• Covers exposed roots, reduces sensitivity, and prevents further recession

5. Bone Grafting / Guided Tissue Regeneration

• Rebuilds bone lost to severe gum disease
• Often used to support loose teeth or prepare for implants

6. Crown Lengthening

• Removes gum and bone tissue to expose more of the tooth
• Helps with restorative work (e.g., placing crowns) or aesthetic improvements

⏱️ Procedure and Recovery

• Local anesthesia is used (sometimes sedation)
• Most procedures take 1–2 hours
• Initial healing: 1–2 weeks
• Full healing: 4–8 weeks, depending on procedure type

✅ Benefits

• Stops progression of gum disease
• Reduces risk of tooth loss
• Improves aesthetics and smile line
• Prepares mouth for crowns, bridges, or implants