Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal surgery is used to treat moderate to advanced cases of periodontal disease and prevent the need for tooth extraction. If you suffer from periodontal disease that is not responding to other conservative treatments, then your Periodontist will most likely recommend Periodontal Surgery. A Periodontal Surgery is designed to restore the form and function of the damaged periodontal structures that support the teeth, by removing the bacterial plaque from around the teeth and below the gum-line. When bacterial infection ‘unzips’ your gums from the roots of your teeth to an extent that dental instruments are no longer effective Periodontal Surgery is the last resort to help reinstate the health of your gums.

This is a minor surgical procedure performed by administering a local anesthetic injection to numb the gums. The gums are gently lifted and the exposed roots are then meticulously cleaned to remove all the tartar and infected tissue. Occasionally some of the gum may be removed to reshape it. Once the roots are cleaned the gums will be placed back against the teeth and anchored in place using stitches. Some Periodontists use stitches that dissolve on their own while others use stitches that will be removed a week after the surgery.

If non-surgical treatments are not sufficient to secure your gum health and if you continue to suffer the follow symptoms you may need a Periodontal Surgery

• Bad breath that won’t go away
• Gums are swollen, painful or red for no apparent reason
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Gum recession or longer looking teeth
• Loosening of teeth/change in bite pattern
• Pus oozing from in between the teeth

You may be an eligible candidate for Periodontal Surgery if

• You are in good general health and not overly stressed
• The tissue surrounding the teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical options
• You are looking to improve the long term stability of your gum condition
• Periodontal disease affects your mouth and you are in need of treatment to resolve your disease or a means of restoring your mouth from the effects of periodontal disease
• The bacterial infection has caused deep periodontal pockets or has settled beyond the reach of manual scalers
• You are well-informed about the procedure and can commit to good oral hygiene habits, post-surgery

The risks associated with Periodontal surgery may include post-operative pain, swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, damage to adjacent teeth structures, temporary loosening of teeth, altered sensation and sensitivity of teeth at the surgical site.

The successful outcome of the surgery greatly depends on the factors that have contributed to your periodontal disease and your ability to maintain optimum levels of oral hygiene. Remember, Periodontal Surgery isn’t a cure—the prospect for reoccurrence is always there. Patients who undergo surgery, but do not continue the regular maintenance care or fail to follow good oral hygiene practices run a higher risk of recurrence.

Periodontal surgery is a great way to eliminate or reduce pockets and promote an environment more conducive to good oral hygiene practices and professional maintenance care. If you are suffering from periodontal disease or noticing symptoms or changes in your gums, then it’s time to see your Periodontist right away. Schedule an appointment today and get one step closer to healthier gums!