Periodontal surgery
Periodontal Surgery
Gum disease can be combated with a number of treatment options. We will review the details of the client’s condition and severity of the disease. It is our preference to begin with the least invasive options but if necessary will suggest surgery.
The decision is based on the amount of damage to the tissue and bone around the teeth. If surgery becomes necessary there are several options and we will recommend the procedure that will best restore healthy gums and teeth.
Pocket Depth Reduction
In a healthy mouth, the teeth are surrounded by gum tissue and supported by the jaw bones. Periodontal disease damages both the gums and bones and creates open spaces around the teeth. These are called pockets and the larger the pockets, the easier for bacteria to collect, causing even more damage.
Pocket reduction procedures are called flap surgery and it is when the gums are folded back and the bacteria is removed together with any plaque or tartar that may have accumulated. We will also remove any tissue that will not survive. At that point the healthy tissue is sewn back into place. Then it allows the gums to go back to securing the teeth in place.
Regeneration
It is possible to restore bone and tissue that has been lost through severe gum disease. It is a process called regeneration. This procedure involves folding back the gum tissue and removing all bacteria, plaque and tartar. Then there are two options: a bone graft to stimulate new growth or application of a special protein to stimulate tissue growth. The option depends on the circumstances of the client.
Soft Tissue Graft
With gum disease, the individual sometimes experiences gum recession or gingival recession. This reveals more of the tooth and sometimes the roots. It exposes the areas to increased damage from plaque, tartar, and bacteria as they can attack the more exposed surfaces.
A soft tissue graft takes a part of the tissue from the top of the mouth and is sewn onto the gum area. This will cover the roots and restore the appropriate gum line.
