A gingivectomy is a common dental procedure involving the surgical removal and reshaping of gum tissue for both health and aesthetic reasons. It is often recommended to treat gum disease by eliminating deep pockets that trap bacteria or to correct a “gummy smile” by contouring excess tissue. Modern techniques and effective pain management protocols make the entire process manageable. The procedure itself is relatively quick, typically taking between 30 and 60 minutes.
Numbing the Area: Experience During the Procedure
The experience during a gingivectomy is generally comfortable because the procedure is performed exclusively under local anesthesia. A local anesthetic, such as Lidocaine, is injected into the gum tissue to completely numb the surgical area. The only pain sensation a patient typically experiences is the initial, brief pinch or sting from the injection itself.
Once the numbing agent has taken full effect, all sharp pain sensation is blocked. Patients can expect to feel pressure, vibration, or movement as the dentist or periodontist works, but they should not feel any cutting. If the procedure is performed using a soft tissue laser instead of a traditional scalpel, the sensation is often milder. Laser application results in less bleeding because the laser cauterizes the tissue as it removes it, often eliminating the need for stitches.
Managing Discomfort in the Immediate Aftermath
Discomfort begins only after the local anesthetic wears off, usually a few hours after the procedure. During this initial 24- to 48-hour period, the pain is typically mild to moderate and is a normal response to the surgical removal of tissue. Standard pain management focuses on the consistent use of Over-The-Counter (OTC) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Practitioners recommend starting ibuprofen immediately after the procedure, before the numbness subsides, to get ahead of the discomfort. NSAIDs reduce inflammation, which is the primary cause of post-surgical pain and swelling. Patients are often advised to alternate ibuprofen and acetaminophen every few hours, as this provides more comprehensive pain relief than either medication alone. Prescription-strength pain medication is rarely necessary but may be provided for extensive tissue removal or for patients with a lower pain tolerance. To minimize swelling, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of the face over the surgical area, using an alternating cycle of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first few hours.
Navigating the Full Recovery Timeline
While acute discomfort is easily managed and resolves quickly, the full healing process takes longer. The most significant pain and swelling usually peak around the second or third day following surgery and then rapidly diminish. Most patients report that their primary discomfort is gone, and they are comfortable enough to return to work or school within one to three days.
The soft gum tissue requires about one to two weeks to completely heal. During this time, home care modifications are necessary to protect the healing site and prevent complications. Patients must adhere to a soft diet, avoiding hard, crunchy, spicy, or acidic foods that could irritate the open wounds. Gentle brushing is required in areas away from the surgical site, and a prescribed antimicrobial mouth rinse is often used to keep the area clean. Signs of a potential complication warranting an immediate call to the dental office include persistent, excessive bleeding, severe pain not managed by medication, or a fever.