Gingivectomy in Woodland Hills
If you've noticed your teeth look short, your gums seem to cover more of your smile than they should, or certain areas of gum tissue have become puffy and hard to keep clean, you're not alone. These are common reasons patients in Woodland Hills come to us asking about gingivectomy, a procedure that removes and reshapes excess gum tissue. At 805 Dentistry, our Thousand Oaks office cares for patients from Woodland Hills and the surrounding communities. We bring general, cosmetic, and specialty care together under one roof, so you can explore gum treatment with a team that already knows your smile.
A gingivectomy is a procedure in which we carefully remove a portion of the gum tissue around one or more teeth. The goal is to reshape the gumline so it sits at a healthier or more balanced position. Some patients need it for health reasons, such as tissue that has grown over the teeth and created pockets where plaque collects. Others want it for appearance, such as a "gummy" smile where the teeth appear smaller than they really are.
Because the procedure can serve both purposes, we look at your whole mouth before recommending it. Gingivectomy is closely related to other gum procedures we offer, including gum contouring, crown lengthening, and gum disease treatment. Our team includes a board-certified periodontist, a dentist who focuses on the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. That depth of experience helps us choose the approach that fits your situation rather than a one-size-fits-all plan.
Patients from Woodland Hills often find it helpful to handle gum care, cleanings, restorations, and cosmetic work in one familiar place. Our practice describes itself as a one-stop shop for the whole family's dental care. That means if your gingivectomy is part of a larger plan, such as preparing for crowns or veneers or refreshing your smile, we can coordinate each step without sending you to multiple offices.
We also understand that gum procedures can make some people nervous. Our team includes a board-certified dental anesthesiologist, and we offer several comfort options, including nitrous oxide, oral sedation, and IV sedation. Together with our on-site dental lab and in-house periodontal expertise, these resources let us tailor your visit to both your clinical needs and your comfort level.
Am I a good candidate for a gingivectomy?
You may be a good candidate if you have excess gum tissue that affects the health or appearance of your smile. Common situations include:
- Gums that cover a large portion of the teeth, making them look short
- An uneven gumline, where some teeth show more tissue than others
- Overgrown or puffy gum tissue that traps plaque and is difficult to clean
- Gum pockets that remain after other periodontal care, such as scaling and root planing
- Gum tissue that needs reshaping before a crown, veneer, or other restoration
The best way to know for sure is an exam. We'll evaluate your gum tissue, check for signs of gum disease, and talk with you about your goals. If a different treatment, such as gum grafting, periodontal regeneration, or a deep cleaning, would serve you better, we'll explain why and walk you through those options.
What happens during the procedure, and how should I care for my gums afterward?
The process begins with a consultation and exam, followed by a treatment visit where we numb the area and gently remove and reshape the targeted gum tissue. Before we begin, we'll review exactly which teeth are involved and what the finished gumline should look like. If you've chosen sedation, we'll go over how it works and how to prepare.
After the procedure, we'll give you clear aftercare instructions specific to your treatment. These typically cover how to keep the area clean, what to eat while your gums heal, and what to expect as the tissue settles. We'll also schedule follow-up care so we can check your healing. If anything concerns you during recovery, please call us. Because we offer emergency dental appointments, you don't have to wait and wonder.
How can I pay for a gingivectomy?
We accept all major PPO insurance plans, welcome self-pay patients, and offer financing. Whether your gingivectomy is covered depends on your specific plan and on whether the procedure is done for health or cosmetic reasons. Our team is happy to help you understand your benefits before you commit to treatment.
If you're paying out of pocket or want to spread costs over time, ask us about financing during your consultation. We'll review your treatment plan with you so there are no surprises. If you live in Woodland Hills and are ready to talk about your gumline, we'd be glad to welcome you to 805 Dentistry and help you decide on your next step.