Periodontal Gum Surgery

Periodontal Gum Surgery also Known as Periodontal Plastic Surgery is designed to restore form and function to the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and the bone that supports your teeth or an individual tooth. The real long-term goal of any periodontal Gum surgery is to increase the life expectancy of the teeth and their usefulness; it is not a cure for periodontal disease. Basically, periodontal surgery removes tissue that has been transformed by the disease and then reconstructs the gums and surrounding tissues to better support the teeth and to recreate a normal appearance.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease is diagnosed when gingival or gum tissue attachment to the teeth is abnormal and bone changes may be evident through x-rays. The degree of periodontal disease will be estimated by examining "pockets" between the gum and tooth to see how much detachment exists and then will thoroughly examine the x-rays. Your dentist and you can discuss treatment procedures once a periodontal disease diagnosis has been made, beginning with conservative behavioral changes and extending to periodontal plastic surgery.

Treating Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease does not always respond to conservative measures taken before and after diagnosis. While surgery may be necessary in the end, knowing what steps you can take to prevent disease from forming, and from progressing, is very important.

Behavioral Change

When periodontal disease is detected, you will first be recommended for a few behavioral changes including an enhanced oral hygiene program, quitting smoking, and possibly some additional lifestyle changes.

Tartar Removal

A regular and thorough professional tartar or calcified plaque removal program will become an essential part of your oral hygiene routine. Typically this is a painless procedure but, in some extreme cases, pain medication may be required for a few days.

Bite Therapy

Bite disorders can be treated after periodontal disease is diagnosed and treatment has begun. This may prevent future problems and will make your mouth an all-around more hospitable environment.

Surgical Therapy

In cases of severe periodontal disease, surgery will be necessary to repair and regenerate the soft and hard tissues and replace any missing teeth. The goal of surgery is to eliminate pockets between the gum and tooth and attempt to encourage reattachment and normal function and esthetics to the patient.