Periodontal Surgery

If unhealthy gum tissues cannot be repaired via non surgical treatment, surgical treatment will be needed and will be referred to a specialist (Periodontist).

Typically, one of four surgical treatments will be recommended:

Pocket Reduction Procedures

In this procedure, your periodontist folds back the gum tissue, removing the bacteria causing the gum disease.  Once the pockets are thoroughly cleaner, the tissue is secured back in place.  It may be necessary to smoothe irregular bone surfaces prior to resecuring the tissue.

Regenerative Procedures

This procedure is generally recommended when serious damage occurs to the bone supporting your teeth. If the bone can no longer support the tooth, the tooth must be removed.  Regenerative processes are used when there is still a chance to restore the bone.  In this case, a pocket reduction procedure is performed.  During this process, bone grafts, membranes, or tissue stimulating proteints are applied to stimulate regeneration of the bone and tissue.

Crown Lengthening

During this procedure, excess gume and bone tissue is reshaed to expose more of the natural tooth.  This can be done on an andividual basis, or it can be performed across the entire gum line.  This procedure is often recommended for those who appear to have a "gummy" smile, or short teeth.  It can reduce the area over which pockets can develop, reducing the likelihood of a recurrence of periodontal disease.

Soft Tissue Grafts

In cases where the gumline has receeded, soft tissue grafts can be used to restore the gumline.  This procedure helps protect the teeth, gums, and bone from damage.  If the gumline receeds excessively, the root of the tooth can become exposed, making it more prone to infection.  In addition, the supporting bone may tend to degenerate, cuasing a loosening and eventual loss of adjacent teeth.  By grafting soft tissue, the gumline can oftten be restored, reducing these dangers as well as sensitivity and the likelihood of further periodontal disease.