Periodontal surgery is an unfortunate necessity in certain cases where periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, has progressed past the point where non surgical means can be utilized. Gum disease is caused by the build up of bacteria in the mouth in the form of plaque. This can cause an infection in the gums around the teeth. This in turn can cause receding gums, bone loss and eventually tooth loss as well. While mild cases of gum disease can be treated non-surgically, it can take some time to reverse the effects, even if surgery is involved.

Periodontal surgery can come in several different forms, each case being dependent on factors unique to everyone. There are several types of procedures, crown lengthening, regenerative procedures and pocket depth reduction. The most common procedures are gum grafts, gingivectomy and periodontal flap surgery. There are several types of gum grafts but the most common uses a bit of gum from the roof of your mouth to replace the gum lost to gum disease. A gingivectomy is a procedure where unhealthy gum tissue is trimmed back in order to prevent more bacteria from growing. Periodontal flap surgery requires the gums to be peeled back and the pockets cleaned, bone loss analyzed, and recontoured if needed, and then sutured back into place.

The first step to deciding whether or not periodontal surgery is needed is an examination that involves a periodontal probe. Your dentist uses what is basically a small professional measuring stick to see how deep the pockets that have formed around your teeth have become. X-rays will also be taken to analyze bone loss. If your dentist rules out non-surgical procedures it is because the disease has progressed past the point where it can be fixed at home through special attention to oral hygiene. Even if surgery is required, special attention to proper gum care is needed to prevent further need for such actions.

If you are having a problem with gum disease that requires periodontal surgery please feel free to call the Atlanta Dental Group PC to schedule a dental examination in order to determine what will work best for you. Our dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like to make an appointment our Atlanta Dental Surgery expert call 404-874-7428.