Periodontal Flap Surgery
New Bedford, Falmouth, & Hyannis, MA
Periodontal Flap Surgery provided by Dr. Gus Dehni
and Dr. Chris Webb
in New Bedford, Falmouth, & Hyannis, MA at Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
 Periodontal flap surgery is a specialized dental procedure performed to address advanced stages of gum disease, known as periodontitis. When periodontal disease progresses beyond what can be effectively treated with non-surgical methods like scaling and root planing, periodontal flap surgery may be necessary to halt further deterioration and restore gum health.
During periodontal flap surgery, the periodontist carefully makes incisions in the gum tissue to create flaps, allowing access to the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone. This surgical approach enables thorough cleaning of the affected areas, removal of plaque, tartar, and diseased tissue, and assessment of the bone condition.
After cleaning and reshaping the bone if necessary, the periodontist repositions the gums and sutures them back into place. This process reduces pocket depths, eliminates harmful bacteria, and promotes gum tissue regeneration. By addressing these issues, periodontal flap surgery aims to improve overall periodontal health, prevent further tooth loss, and restore the stability of the affected teeth.
Following periodontal flap surgery, patients are typically provided with post-operative care instructions to aid in the healing process and optimize treatment outcomes. These instructions may include recommendations for oral hygiene practices, dietary modifications, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and ensure the long-term success of the surgery.
Flap Surgery Procedure
The flap surgery procedure, also known as periodontal flap surgery, is a specialized surgical intervention aimed at treating advanced gum disease, or periodontitis. This procedure is typically performed by a periodontist, a dentist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of gum diseases.
During the flap surgery procedure, the periodontist begins by administering local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort throughout the surgery. Once the area is numb, the periodontist carefully makes small incisions in the gum tissue to create flaps, which provide access to the roots of the teeth and underlying bone.
With the gums gently lifted back, the periodontist can thoroughly clean the root surfaces and remove any plaque, tartar, and diseased tissue that has accumulated below the gumline. This meticulous cleaning process aims to eliminate the bacteria causing gum disease and promote the healing of the surrounding tissues.
In some cases, the periodontist may need to reshape or regenerate the bone surrounding the teeth to restore its health and integrity. This may involve techniques such as bone grafting or guided tissue regeneration, depending on the extent of bone loss and the specific needs of the patient.
Once the cleaning and any necessary bone reshaping are complete, the flaps are repositioned and sutured back into place. This helps to secure the gums around the teeth and promote proper healing of the surgical site.
Benefits of Gum Flap Surgery
Gum flap surgery offers several benefits for individuals suffering from advanced gum disease. Firstly, it allows for a deep cleaning of the root surfaces and underlying bone, which is not achievable with non-surgical treatments alone. Accessing these hard-to-reach areas allows the periodontist to remove plaque, tartar, and diseased tissue, eliminating the source of infection and promoting healing of the gums.
Secondly, gum flap surgery can help reduce pocket depths, which are spaces that form between the gums and teeth due to gum disease. By reducing these pockets, the risk of further bacterial growth and progression of the disease is minimized, leading to improved periodontal health.
Gum flap surgery may also be beneficial in preserving the stability and function of the affected teeth. Removing infection and reshaping the bone as needed allows the surgery to help support the teeth and prevent further tooth loss.
Who needs a Periodontal Pocket Reduction?
Periodontal pocket reduction, also known as flap surgery, may be recommended for individuals with advanced gum disease, known as periodontitis. This procedure is typically indicated when non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing are ineffective in controlling the progression of the disease. Individuals with deep periodontal pockets, typically measuring 5 millimeters or more, may benefit from pocket reduction surgery to reduce pocket depths and eliminate bacterial infection.
Individuals experiencing symptoms of gum disease such as gum recession, tooth mobility, and persistent bad breath may also be candidates for periodontal pocket reduction. Also, those with underlying medical conditions or lifestyle factors that increase the risk of gum disease, such as diabetes, smoking, or poor oral hygiene, may require periodontal pocket reduction to restore periodontal health and prevent further complications.
What is the Flap Surgery Recovery Process Like?
The flap surgery recovery process typically involves some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with pain medications and ice packs. Patients are advised to stick to soft foods and avoid strenuous activities for a few days. Also, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring healing and ensuring successful outcomes.
What are Most Common Flap Surgery Techniques?
Flap surgery, a common procedure for treating advanced gum disease, encompasses various techniques tailored to individual patient needs. The traditional approach, known as open flap debridement, involves creating incisions in the gum tissue to expose the tooth roots and underlying bone. Through this access, the periodontist thoroughly cleanses the affected areas, removing plaque, tartar, and diseased tissue. In certain cases, bone reshaping or regeneration may be necessary to facilitate healing and restore periodontal health.
Alternatively, modified flap surgery offers a less invasive option by employing smaller incisions in the gum tissue. This technique minimizes post-operative discomfort and accelerates healing, making it suitable for localized gum disease or patients with sensitivity concerns. Modified flap surgery achieves effective treatment while preserving surrounding healthy tissue integrity.
For advanced precision and enhanced patient comfort, laser-assisted flap surgery utilizes cutting-edge laser technology. Laser energy targets and eliminates diseased tissue and bacteria, sterilizing the treatment site and stimulating tissue regeneration. Compared to traditional methods, laser-assisted surgery boasts advantages such as reduced bleeding, swelling, and post-operative pain, along with expedited recovery.
The choice of flap surgery technique depends on factors such as the severity of gum disease, individual patient needs, and the expertise of the treating periodontist. By tailoring the approach to each patient, periodontists can optimize treatment outcomes and promote long-term periodontal health.
Ready for a Dental Appointment?
If you need a dental examination or urgent dental services, you can contact Center for Advanced Periodontics and Implant Dentistry by calling us today at 508-204-3145 for an appointment. |
