Periodontal Surgery

   Periodontal disease is disease of the gums, bone, and other structures supporting the teeth. Symptoms include chronic redness and sensitivity, bleeding gums, loss (recession) of gum tissue supporting the teeth and, in advanced cases, bone loss and damage to the fundamental tooth structure. The compromised health of teeth and gums lessens the aesthetic appearance of even the most attractive smile.

The most common cause of periodontal disease is the activity of bacteria harbored by plaque, the tartar that builds up on teeth and gums not properly cleaned by regular brushing, flossing, and regular dental care. Most periodontists would agree that periodontal health should be achieved in the least invasive manner. Non-surgical treatments include tooth scaling and root planing, a careful cleaning of the root surfaces. If gum disease does not respond well to conservative treatments, your periodontist may recommend periodontal surgery to restore the health of the tissue around your teeth.

Surgical procedures performed by periodontists include pocket depth reduction (removal of bacteria from "pockets" between a tooth and receeding gum, allowing gum tissue to reattach), regenerative procedures to "regrow" damaged gum and bone tissue so you can keep your natural teeth, and gum grafting to build up supportive tooth structure, prevent further gum recession, and improve the appearance of a "toothy" smile.

After periodontal surgery, it is crucial that you strictly follow the program of tooth cleaning and oral hygiene recommended by your dentist to prevent periodontal diseases from recurring.