Periodontal or osseous surgery is a specialized dental surgery procedure that addresses advanced gum disease by accessing the roots of the teeth and the surrounding bone. This surgical intervention involves meticulously cleaning and removing diseased tissue, calculus, and bacteria from deep gum pockets and reshaping or regenerating the bone to restore lost support. By reducing pocket depth and promoting gum and bone health, periodontal surgery aims to halt the progression of gum disease, stabilize the teeth, and improve oral health and function.
The Primary Goals of Periodontal Surgery
- Deep gum pockets provide an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, leading to further damage and bone loss. Periodontal surgery aims to reduce pocket depth by removing diseased tissue and calculus, promoting healthier gums, and preventing the progression of gum disease.
- This surgical technique removes infected gum tissue and calculus from around the teeth. By eliminating these sources of infection, periodontal surgery helps to halt the progression of gum disease and promote tissue healing.
- Periodontal surgery may involve bone grafting or other regenerative techniques to restore lost bone tissue and support teeth after bone loss due to gum disease. This helps stabilize the teeth and prevent tooth loss.
- Periodontal surgery can also address aesthetic concerns like uneven gum lines or excessive gum tissue. By reshaping the gum tissue and creating a more symmetrical appearance, periodontal surgery can enhance the overall aesthetics of the smile.
- By addressing the underlying causes of gum disease and bone loss, periodontal surgery helps to stabilize the teeth and prevent further tooth loss. This promotes long-term oral health and preserves the natural dentition for as long as possible.
The Periodontal Surgery Process
Before the surgery, the periodontist conducts a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays and periodontal probing, to assess the extent of the gum disease and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. The patient's medical history and any medications they are taking are also considered.
On the day of the surgery, local anesthesia is administered to numb the surgical site and ensure the patient's comfort throughout the procedure. Sometimes, sedation may also be used to help the patient relax.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the periodontist makes small incisions in the gum tissue to access the underlying bone and roots of the teeth. These incisions allow the periodontist to reach the areas affected by gum disease and perform the necessary treatments.
The periodontist thoroughly cleans the tooth roots using specialized instruments and removes any diseased tissue or calculus (hardened plaque) from around the teeth. This process, known as debridement, helps to eliminate sources of infection and inflammation.
In cases where bone loss has occurred due to advanced gum disease, the periodontist may reshape or regenerate the bone surrounding the teeth to promote healing and provide better support. This may involve techniques such as bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration.
Once the necessary treatments have been completed, the gum tissue is repositioned and sutured into place to facilitate proper healing. The periodontist may also place a protective barrier, such as a membrane or tissue graft, to aid in the healing process and promote tissue regeneration.
After the surgery, patients receive instructions for post-operative care, including oral hygiene practices, dietary restrictions, and medications to manage pain or prevent infection. They are also scheduled for follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary. Call us to learn more.
The Benefits of Periodontal Surgery
Improved Gum Health
Periodontal surgery effectively removes diseased tissue and reduces pocket depth, promoting healthier gums and preventing further damage. By eliminating pockets where bacteria can accumulate, this surgery helps to halt the progression of gum disease and minimize the risk of future infections.
Regeneration of Bone Tissue
In cases of advanced gum disease, bone loss around the teeth can occur, leading to tooth instability and eventual tooth loss. Periodontal surgery may involve techniques to regenerate lost bone tissue, providing better support for the teeth and preventing further tooth loss.
Enhanced Aesthetics
Gum disease can cause aesthetic issues such as gum recession, uneven gum lines, and excessive gum tissue. Periodontal surgery can address these concerns by reshaping the gums and creating a more harmonious appearance, thereby enhancing the overall aesthetics of the smile.
Stabilization of Teeth
By addressing the underlying causes of gum disease and bone loss, periodontal surgery helps to stabilize the teeth and prevent further tooth mobility or loss. This promotes long-term dental health and function, allowing patients to retain their natural teeth for as long as possible.
Improved Overall Health
Gum disease has been linked to various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Periodontal surgery may improve overall health and well-being by treating gum disease effectively, reducing the risk of complications associated with systemic inflammation.
Periodontal surgery helps individuals achieve healthier smiles and improved overall well-being by addressing the underlying causes of gum disease and restoring oral health. Visit Ali Haeri D.M.D., M.H.S. at 1297 W Main St., Suite A, El Cajon, CA 92020-4135, or call (619) 579-0505 to learn more.