What is Periodontal Surgery?
Periodontal surgery is a type of dental procedure designed to treat gum disease and other conditions that affect the gums and surrounding tissues. It is usually performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease. Periodontal surgery can help reduce inflammation in the gums, repair damage to the teeth and gums, and restore the mouth to a healthier state.
Do I Need Periodontal Surgery?
It depends on what type of gum disease you have and how severe it is. If you have mild gum disease, the best treatment may be a combination of regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. If your gum disease is more advanced and there is a lot of damage to the teeth and gums, periodontal surgery may be necessary to restore the mouth to a healthy state.
Your periodontist can evaluate the condition of your gums and recommend the best course of action. They may also recommend a combination of treatments, including periodontal surgery, to help treat your gum disease and protect your oral health.
What Can I Expect During Periodontal Surgery?
The exact procedure will depend on your individual situation, but generally, periodontal surgery involves making small incisions in the gums to remove infected or damaged tissue. The periodontist may also use special instruments to clean the teeth and gums, as well as to reshape the gums.
In some cases, periodontal surgery can also involve grafting new tissue to the gums to help restore the natural contours of the mouth. After the surgery, the gums may be stitched back together.
What is the Recovery Period After Periodontal Surgery?
The recovery period after periodontal surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient. Generally, it takes about 7-14 days for the gums to heal and for the stitches to dissolve. During this time, it is important to follow your periodontist's instructions for care, such as brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding certain foods and beverages that may irritate the gums, and using prescribed medications.
In some cases, additional appointments may be necessary to monitor the healing process and make sure that the mouth is healthy.
Conclusion
Periodontal surgery can help treat gum disease and restore the mouth to a healthier state. In some cases, it is necessary to treat gum disease and protect your oral health. Your periodontist can evaluate the condition of your gums and recommend the best course of action. The recovery period after periodontal surgery is generally 7-14 days, and it is important to follow your periodontist's instructions for care during this time.