Pet Gingivoplasty | Resources | Advanced Animal Dentistry

Gingivoplasty, or the ‘gingival wedge’ procedure, is an effective treatment option for patients with linguoverted mandibular canine teeth, commonly referred to as base narrow canines. This condition, if left untreated, can lead to traumatic occlusion, where the teeth bite into the soft tissues of the mouth, causing pain and potential long-term complications. By carefully reshaping the gum tissue, this procedure can guide the eruption of the canine teeth into a more favourable position, helping to prevent further issues and often eliminating the need for more invasive interventions later on.

AAD-Gingivoplasty in Canine Orthodontics

Gingivoplasty for Class 1 Malocclusion

Gingivoplasty is a surgical procedure often performed in dogs with Class 1 Malocclusion, where the problem lies with the positioning of the teeth rather than the length of the jaw. This procedure is particularly useful for guiding lower canines into a more labial or outward position, which is generally easier than attempting to move the teeth forward or backward.

While primarily used for Class 1 cases, gingivoplasty can also benefit dogs with mild Class 2 (underbite) or Class 3 (overbite) Malocclusion, offering a less invasive solution to correct misaligned teeth and improve overall oral health.

“Proper timing is crucial for optimal results.”

Timing is critical for an effective procedure

This procedure is most effective when performed during the active eruption of the mandibular canine teeth. At this stage, the teeth are still mobile, making it easier to guide them into the correct position.

If gingivoplasty is completed after the teeth have fully erupted, they become firmly anchored in the jaw, significantly reducing the chances of successful repositioning.

On the other hand, performing the procedure too early can lead to improper healing, as the surgical site may revert to its original shape before the canine tips make contact. Proper timing is crucial for optimal results.

“The goal is to create a ramp that guides the erupting mandibular canine teeth into a better position.”

Gingivoplasty in Canine Orthodontics

Gingivoplasty involves the removal and reshaping of gum tissue between the maxillary canine tooth and the maxillary third incisor. The goal is to create a ramp that guides the erupting mandibular canine teeth into a better position.

This procedure is often paired with Ball therapy and is an interceptive orthodontic technique. When successful, it can prevent the need for more invasive treatments. However, if your pet isn’t a candidate or the procedure doesn’t achieve the desired results, there are alternative options available to manage these malocclusions effectively.

Meet the Author

Aaron Forsayeth

BVSc (Hons) MACVSc (Veterinary Dentistry)

Hi, I’m Dr Aaron Forsayeth, and I’ve had quite the journey in veterinary medicine. Originally, I never imagined myself pursuing dentistry.
I spent my initial years in general practice until a chance meeting with Dr Gary Wilson changed my career path. He inspired me to explore veterinary dentistry, and together, we co-founded Advanced Animal Dentistry in 2006. It’s ironic, considering I used to dread dental procedures, but with the right knowledge and skills, it became a passion that I absolutely love to this day.

FAQs

What is gingivoplasty (‘gingival wedge’) in dogs and what does it treat?

Gingivoplasty is a minor surgical reshaping of gum to create a ramp that guides the erupting lower canines and treats base‑narrow (linguoverted) lower canines—see the procedure overview on Gingivoplasty and the condition page Linguoverted Canine Teeth

What’s the best age/timing for gingivoplasty?

This procedure works best during active eruption of the mandibular canines, and is less effective once they’ve fully erupted—details under “Timing is critical” on Gingivoplasty ; for the typical eruption window (often around 4½–5½ months), see Ball Therapy

Will my dog be under anaesthesia—and is it safe?

Yes; as with most oral surgery, gingivoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia with tailored monitoring—see pre‑anaesthetic checks and recovery on What to Expect and the clinic’s Complex Anaesthesia

Do puppies still need ball therapy after gingivoplasty?

Often yes—gingivoplasty is frequently paired with play‑based Ball Therapy as an interceptive orthodontic approach to guide teeth and reduce the need for more invasive treatments, as outlined on Gingivoplasty

What are the alternatives if gingivoplasty isn’t suitable or doesn’t work?

Depending on age and severity, your specialist may recommend Inclined Plane / Crown Extensions, Crown Height Reduction with Vital Pulpotomy

Key Takeaways

Purpose

A small gum reshaping creates a soft‑tissue ramp that redirects erupting lower canines away from the palate, preventing trauma in base‑narrow (linguoverted) cases.

Timing is critical

Works best during active eruption of the mandibular canines (typically ~4½–5½ months); once teeth are fully erupted, fixed appliances or surgical alternatives are usually needed.

Part of a plan, not a standalone fix

Commonly paired with ball therapy to guide movement; if progress stalls, care escalates to inclined plane/crown extensions, crown height reduction with vital pulpotomy, or extraction.

Anaesthesia & recovery

Performed under general anaesthesia with monitoring; typically a same‑day procedure with straightforward home care (soft diet, activity restriction, wound checks).

Outcome focus

Early, targeted intervention reduces pain, prevents palatal injury, and can minimise the need and cost of more invasive treatments later.

Next steps

For Pet Owners

Are you concerned about your pet’s dental health? Call 1300 866 848 or fill out the contact form. We’ll coordinate with your primary vet to ensure the best outcome.

For Vets & Nurses

We’re here to help. If you’d like to refer a patient, please call us at 1300 866 848 , complete the referral form or email us with a brief case summary, relevant radiographs and lab results.

For advice and treatment guidance, email us with a brief case summary, relevant radiographs and lab results.

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