Dental · Gum Esthetics · Gingivectomy · Nişantaşı Istanbul

Gingivectomy (Laser Gum Removal)
Removing Excess and Diseased Gum

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Tuğçe Sümer Yılmaz· Updated: 2026-06-30

“Gingivectomy is not just 'cutting gum'; it is removing the right amount of excess or diseased tissue to bring the gums to a healthy and esthetic level.”
— Dr. Tuğçe Sümer Yılmaz · Periodontology Specialist

What Is Gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is the surgical removal of excess or diseased gum tissue. The aim is to remove gum that covers the teeth too much, is inflamed or overgrown (hyperplastic), to achieve a healthy and esthetic gum level. Today it is mostly done with a laser, minimizing bleeding and discomfort.

Gingivectomy vs Gingivoplasty

They are often confused but differ, and are usually done together:

	Gingivectomy	Gingivoplasty
What it does	Removes excess/diseased tissue	Reshapes the gum contour
Goal	Eliminate excess/inflammation	Natural, symmetric look

In practice, excess tissue is usually removed first (gingivectomy), then the edges are shaped with gingivoplasty .

When Is Gingivectomy Done?

Gum overgrowth (hyperplasia): Gum enlargement due to certain medications, orthodontic treatment or hormonal conditions.

Gum-related gummy smile: Removing gum that covers the teeth too much so they reach their natural length.

Periodontal pockets: Eliminating gum pockets that cannot be cleaned.

Before restorations: Preparing the right gum level for fillings, crowns or veneers.

Laser or Conventional Gingivectomy?

Laser gingivectomy involves less bleeding and swelling, faster healing and more precise cutting; it may not require sutures. The conventional (scalpel) method is also effective. The right choice depends on the amount of tissue and the case.

Process and Recovery

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, usually in a single session. After laser treatment, surface healing progresses noticeably within a few days; full tissue maturation completes in a few weeks. A soft diet and good oral hygiene are recommended in the first days.

Why Dr. Tuğçe Sümer Yılmaz?

Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure involving the gum and, where needed, bone tissue; it should be performed by a periodontology specialist. At TSHEALTH Nişantaşı it is carried out by periodontology specialist, cosmetic and aesthetic dentist Dr. Tuğçe Sümer Yılmaz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gingivectomy and gingivoplasty the same?

No. Gingivectomy removes excess or diseased gum tissue; gingivoplasty reshapes the gum contour. They are often done in the same session: excess tissue is removed first (gingivectomy), then the edges are shaped (gingivoplasty).

Is gingivectomy painful?

The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so no pain is felt during it. With a laser, bleeding and post-op discomfort are minimal.

Does the gum grow back after gingivectomy?

In healthy tissue, gingivectomy gives a permanent result. However, if gum overgrowth is due to medication, hormonal conditions or poor oral hygiene, the tissue may regrow if that cause persists; addressing the underlying cause is therefore important.

Laser or conventional gingivectomy — which is better?

Laser gingivectomy has less bleeding and swelling, faster healing and more precise cutting. The conventional (scalpel) method is also effective; the suitable option is assessed per case.

Who should perform gingivectomy?

Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure involving gum and, where needed, bone tissue; it should be performed by a periodontology specialist. At TSHEALTH it is carried out by Dr. Tuğçe Sümer Yılmaz.

How long does gingivectomy healing take?

After laser gingivectomy, surface healing usually progresses noticeably within a few days; full maturation completes in a few weeks. A soft diet and good oral hygiene are recommended in the first days.

Gum Assessment

Find out the condition of your gums and whether gingivectomy or another method is right for you.

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