Sometimes gums can grow and build up over the front portion of the tooth. This can dampen your smile or make it difficult for a tooth to be removed or a filling to be placed. This minor surgical procedure removes the excess gum tissue around the tooth. The procedure itself is quick and painless. Following the procedure, a periodontal dressing will be placed over the operated area to allow for proper healing. This may last a few weeks, but after that, the gum is entirely free of pain.