Final answer:
A gingivectomy is a dental procedure that removes diseased gum tissue to eliminate suprabony pockets associated with periodontal disease. It is not used for treating thick osseous ledges, mucogingival problems, or infrabony pockets.
Step-by-step explanation:
A gingivectomy is a dental procedure that is performed to remove diseased gum tissue (gingival) and reshape the gums if necessary. This technique is particularly useful for eliminating suprabony pockets, which are gingival pockets that do not extend below the bony crest of the jaw. While gingivectomy can be instrumental in the treatment of periodontal disease, it is not typically used for removing thick osseous ledges, correcting mucogingival problems, or addressing infrabony pockets. The latter conditions often require different periodontal procedures.
Periodontitis is a serious gum disease that could result in gum recession, bone loss, and even tooth loss if not treated correctly. Treatment may include improved dental hygiene, professional cleaning, and potentially antibiotics. However, for severe cases, or when non-surgical interventions are ineffective, a gingivectomy may be considered to remove affected gum tissue and decrease the depth of the periodontal pockets.