Gum Health & Smile Aesthetics
Gingivectomy in Fox Point, Wisconsin
Healthier gums and a more balanced smile at Port Road Dental.
At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, gingivectomy is a gentle procedure that reshapes or removes excess gum tissue to improve both comfort and appearance. Whether you’re treating periodontal disease or a “gummy” smile, our team focuses on precise planning, comfort, and clear guidance at every step.
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy at Port Road Dental
A gingivectomy carefully removes excess or diseased gum tissue to reduce pockets, make cleaning easier, and create a more natural-looking smile. At Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin, we customize this procedure to your needs so your gums can be healthier, easier to care for, and more in harmony with your teeth.
What Is a Gingivectomy?
A gingivectomy is a minor surgical procedure that reshapes or removes small amounts of gum tissue. It is often recommended when deep pockets around the teeth trap bacteria, when gum tissue has been damaged by periodontal disease, or when there is extra gum covering the teeth and creating a “gummy” smile. By contouring the gums, we improve access for brushing and flossing and enhance the overall look of your smile.
- Reduces deep gum pockets Makes it easier to clean around teeth and manage periodontal disease.
- Improves smile balance Carefully reshapes excess gum tissue so more of each tooth shows when you smile.
- Supports long-term oral health Healthier gums can help protect the bone and teeth they support.
Our Gentle, Modern Approach
Before recommending a gingivectomy, we complete a thorough exam, review X-rays, and talk through your goals and concerns. During the procedure, we carefully numb the area, work in small sections, and check in with you frequently so you stay as comfortable as possible. Most patients are surprised by how quick and manageable the visit feels.
- Thorough periodontal charting to measure pocket depths and plan treatment
- Precise instruments and conservative tissue removal to protect healthy areas
- Comfort-focused local anesthetic and numbing techniques
- Clear, written aftercare instructions to support smooth healing
Healing, Results & Next Steps
After a gingivectomy, it’s common to experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days as the gums heal. We’ll show you how to keep the area clean, what to eat while you recover, and when to return for follow-up care. Most patients notice their gums look and feel better as healing progresses and cleaning becomes easier. If you’ve been told you have deep pockets, gum disease, or a gummy smile, schedule a visit with Port Road Dental to see whether gingivectomy is the right option for you.
Ready to learn more? Contact our Fox Point office to schedule a personalized evaluation and talk through your treatment options with our team.
Gingivectomy: Frequently Asked Questions
- Why would I need a gingivectomy?
- We may recommend a gingivectomy if you have deep gum pockets that trap bacteria, gum tissue damaged by periodontal disease, or extra gum covering your teeth and creating a “gummy” smile. Removing and reshaping this tissue can improve gum health, make cleaning easier, and enhance your smile’s appearance.
- Is a gingivectomy painful?
- Before we begin, we gently numb the area so you should feel pressure or movement, but not sharp pain. Some soreness afterward is normal, similar to a scraped knee, and usually improves over a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief and following our home-care instructions are typically enough to keep you comfortable.
- What is recovery like after gingivectomy?
- Most patients return to normal daily activities the same day or the next. You may notice mild tenderness, temporary sensitivity to hot or cold, and a need to favor softer foods at first. Keeping the area clean as instructed and attending follow-up visits at Port Road Dental helps your gums heal smoothly.
- Will my gums grow back after the procedure?
- The goal is to remove only the amount of gum tissue needed for health and aesthetics. While gums can swell or heal after treatment, the excess or diseased tissue we remove does not typically grow back in the same way. Good home care and regular checkups help maintain your results.
- How long do the results of a gingivectomy last?
- With consistent brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, the benefits of a gingivectomy can be long-lasting. If you have a history of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent periodontal maintenance visits to keep your gums stable over time.
- How much does a gingivectomy cost?
- The cost depends on how many teeth or areas are treated and whether additional periodontal therapy is needed. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized estimate, review your options, and discuss payment or financing solutions that fit your budget.
- Will my dental insurance cover gingivectomy?
- Many plans offer coverage when gingivectomy is performed for periodontal disease or functional reasons, while coverage for cosmetic-only treatment may be more limited. Our team can review your benefits, submit any necessary information, and help you understand your out-of-pocket costs.
- How do I know if I’m a candidate for gingivectomy?
- The best way to find out is to schedule an exam at Port Road Dental in Fox Point, Wisconsin. We’ll evaluate your gums, measure pocket depths, take any needed X-rays, and explain whether gingivectomy or another treatment would be the most appropriate option for your smile.
Dr. Zach Wehner
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Dr. James Markenson
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“Comfortable & Caring”
“Port Road Dental made me feel completely at ease from the moment I walked in. Everyone was friendly, gentle, and took the time to explain each step. I’ve never felt more comfortable at a dental office.”
“Exceptional Every Visit”
“Every appointment at Port Road Dental is smooth, professional, and stress-free. The team is patient, attentive, and truly focused on my comfort. I always leave feeling confident about my care.”
