Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a threat to your oral health and overall well-being. In the early stages it is reversible, but as it progresses it can damage the support structures for your teeth. Once the damage is done, periodontal surgery may be needed to manage gum disease. Timely treatment can prevent further complications.
Has your dentist or periodontist recommended surgery? This overview of surgical procedures for gum disease can help you develop a more thorough understanding of your treatment and what to expect.
What is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue. It is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth, which contains bacteria that can become invasive over time if not removed. Stages of periodontal disease include:
- Gingivitis. The earliest stage of gum disease is gingivitis, when the gums begin to show signs of irritation such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums. At this stage the infection can be treated before it progresses by making improvements to your oral hygiene habits.
- Moderate periodontitis. As the infection progresses it becomes periodontitis. The gums begin to pull away from the teeth and bone loss occurs in the jaw, leaving the teeth unsupported and potentially loose.
- Advanced periodontitis. By the advanced stage of periodontal disease the support structures for the teeth have significantly deteriorated, leading to tooth loss.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Gum Disease
The first line of defense against gum disease is scaling and root planing. This involves the removal of plaque from the teeth both above and below the gumline. The roots of the teeth are buffed until smooth, giving the gum tissue a more ideal surface for reattachment. Early and moderate stage gum disease can often be treated or managed with non-surgical periodontal care.
When is Periodontal Surgery Necessary?
As periodontal disease progresses, it causes damage to the support structures for the teeth, resulting in a variety of problems. Periodontal surgery may be necessary in the following situations:
- Severe gum recession. Gum disease causes the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, leaving the roots exposed and the teeth unsupported.
- Deep pockets. Moderate and advanced gum disease cause deep pockets to develop between the teeth and jaw, creating spaces for bacteria to gather and the infection to worsen.
- Bone loss. As gum disease progresses the jaw bone weakens and deteriorates, allowing the teeth to become loose and even fall out.
In these cases it is important to work with a trusted periodontist, a dental specialist with education and training in the treatment of gum disease.
Types of Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery can repair and regenerate lost bone tissue to restore support. Procedures include:
- Osseous surgery. Also called pocket reduction surgery, because it aims to reduce the pockets between the jaw and teeth that result from the infection. Diseased tissue and debris are removed, allowing the gums and connective tissues to reattach to the jaw.
- Bone regeneration. Lost bone tissue can be regenerated by inserting bone material into the pockets between the gums and jaw, providing a scaffold that encourages regrowth.
Benefits of Periodontal Surgery
- Improved oral health. Periodontal surgery can repair the damage caused by gum disease and make it easier to manage going forward.
- Prevention of tooth loss. Avoid losing your natural teeth due to lack of support.
- Enhanced aesthetics. Your smile will look more natural after lost bone and gum tissue are restored.
- Long-term cost savings. Timely periodontal surgery can prevent the need for future treatment that can be costly, such as replacement teeth.
Contact Medford Periodontics
If you’re in need of periodontal surgery, Medford Periodontics provides the treatment you need to manage gum disease and the residual damage. Dr. Calem has the expertise necessary to perform a wide variety of periodontal procedures aimed to restore your oral health and prevent further problems. Call 609-953-3700 or contact us today to learn more and schedule your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Surgery
How long does periodontal surgery take?
Depending on the type of procedure and the severity of your case, periodontal surgery can take an average of 1-2 hours. After a consultation and evaluation, we can provide a more accurate time estimate.
Will periodontal surgery cure my gum disease?
Once gum disease progresses to the point where surgical treatment is needed, the condition can only be managed, but not cured. This is why early detection and treatment is so important.
At Medford Periodontics we provide the advanced procedures needed to restore your oral health. Dr. Calem and his team of highly qualified professionals are dedicated to creating a comfortable and compassionate environment where all patients feel respected and cared for. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.