What is "gingivectomy"

n. (context surgery English) A periodontal surgical procedure to remove gum tissue.

Gingivectomy means excision of the gingiva. By removing the pocket wall, gingivectomy provides visibility and accessibility for complete calculus removal and thorough smoothing of the roots, creating a favorable environment for gingival healing and restoration of a physiologic gingival contour.

Indications

1. Elimination of suprabony pockets
2. Elimination of gingival enlargements
3. Elimination of suprabony periodontal abscesses.

Contraindications

1. Need for bone surgery
2. When bottom of the pocket is apical to the Mucogingival junction
3. Esthetic considerations, particularly in anterior region of Maxilla

Gingivectomy can be performed by various techniques.

• Surgical gingivectomy
• Gingivectomy by electrosurgery
• Laser gingivectomy
• Gingivectomy by chemosurgery