What?

• It is the trimming of the gum line by either laser or periodontal surgery.
• Gingivectomy is the cutting away of soft tissue only, in such a way that the firmer outer layer of the gum is preserved as far as possible.
• Crown lengthening involves opening of the gum and contouring of the underlying bone with a drill. The gum is trimmed and sutured into the correct position.

When?

• An uneven gum line
• Too much gum covering the teeth eg. Overgrown gums, due to side effects of certain medications or genetic defects
• Teeth that appear too short
• “Gummy smile”
• Where a crown needs to be placed, but very little tooth is left.
• Severe periodontitis

 Advantages

• Good cosmetic result, with minimal invasion.

Disadvantages

• It extends total treatment time, as aesthetic treatment can only be started after healing of the gums.

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