A gingivectomy is the total removal of a portion of the gingiva (gum) from in and around a tooth or teeth. The procedure is typically performed in order to treat gum disease, or to increase the height or width of one or more teeth.
A gingivectomy can be performed by a general dentist who has training in periodontal surgery, but it is more likely to be done by a periodontist. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) defines a periodontist as a dentist with specialized training in the treatment of gums and gum conditions.
There is a similar periodontal surgery called a gingivoplasty. While a gingivectomy focuses on the removal of diseased or excess gum tissue, a gingivoplasty focuses on reshaping the gum tissue around the gum line. While they are sometimes performed at the same time, they are two distinct surgeries with different purposes.