Gum Surgery
Restore Gum Health with Gum Surgery
Gum surgery, also known as periodontal surgery, may be recommended to treat advanced gum disease or other conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.
At Water’s Edge Dental, our team works closely with patients to explain their treatment options and help them feel comfortable throughout the process. If gum surgery is recommended, your dentist will review the procedure, discuss the expected outcomes, and answer any questions you may have.
WHAT IS GUM SURGERY?
Gum surgery refers to several procedures used to treat conditions affecting the gums and surrounding bone. These treatments are typically recommended when gum disease has progressed beyond the early stages and cannot be managed with non-surgical treatments alone.
Periodontal surgery may help remove bacteria and tartar below the gumline, reduce deep gum pockets, and support the health of the surrounding bone and gum tissue.
Your dentist will assess your oral health and determine whether surgical treatment is appropriate for your specific condition.
WHY GUM SURGERY MAY BE RECOMMENDED
Treating Advanced Gum Disease
When gum disease progresses to advanced stages, bacteria and tartar may accumulate beneath the gumline and require surgical treatment.
Reducing Periodontal Pockets
Gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming deep pockets where bacteria collect. Surgery may help reduce these pockets.
Supporting Bone and Tissue Health
Advanced gum disease can affect the supporting bone and tissues around teeth. Some procedures may help support these structures.
Helping Maintain Teeth
Treating advanced gum disease may help reduce the risk of further damage to teeth and surrounding tissues.
TYPES OF GUM SURGERY
Several types of periodontal procedures may be recommended depending on the severity of gum disease.
Pocket Reduction Surgery
This procedure helps reduce deep gum pockets caused by periodontal disease. The dentist or specialist may gently lift the gum tissue to remove bacteria and tartar before repositioning the gums around the tooth.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting may be recommended when gum recession exposes tooth roots. In this procedure, gum tissue is placed over the exposed area to help protect the tooth and support gum health.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting may be used when bone loss has occurred around teeth. The grafting material helps support the bone structure and may be recommended as part of periodontal treatment or before procedures such as dental implants.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING GUM SURGERY
Understanding the treatment process can help patients feel more comfortable about periodontal procedures.
Consultation
Your dentist will review your oral health history, examine your teeth and gums, and may take digital X-rays to evaluate bone levels and gum health.
Preparing for the Procedure
If gum surgery is recommended, your dentist will explain the procedure and provide instructions to help prepare for the appointment. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the treatment area.
The Procedure
The dentist or specialist performs the procedure using techniques designed to treat the affected gum tissue and help restore gum health.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following the procedure, patients receive instructions on caring for their gums during healing. Your dental team will also schedule follow-up visits to monitor healing.
Support your Gum Health
Patients with gum disease often benefit from closely monitoring their oral health and following a personalized care plan to help support healthy gums. At Water’s Edge Dental, our team is here to guide you with practical oral hygiene recommendations and treatment options designed to help manage gum health.
If you have concerns about your gums or symptoms of gum disease, you can contact our office to schedule an appointment. We’ll look over your oral health and discuss a care plan that is appropriate for your needs.