Periodontal surgery is a type of dental surgery that focuses on the treatment and management of periodontal disease, which is a chronic infection of the gums and supporting structures of teeth. Periodontal surgery may be necessary when non-surgical treatments, like scaling and root planning, are not sufficient to control the disease.
Types of periodontal surgery include:
Flap surgery: In flap surgery, the gums are lifted away from the teeth, and the roots and bone are cleaned of bacteria and debris. The gums are then repositioned and sutured back into place.
Gingivectomy: Gingivectomy involves the removal of excess gum tissue that has grown over the teeth, making it difficult to clean and creating a pocket for bacteria to collect.
Crown lengthening: Crown lengthening involves removing small amounts of gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface, which can be necessary if a tooth needs a crown or filling.
Guided tissue regeneration: This procedure involves placing a membrane between the teeth and gums to promote the growth of new bone and tissue.
Periodontal surgery can help prevent tooth loss, improve oral health, and restore the aesthetics of the mouth. However, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene after surgery to prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease.