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Surgical

If after a non-surgical procedure disease pocket remain around your teeth, periodontal gum surgery is necessary to  alter or eliminate  the microbial factors that create Periodontitis, thereby stopping the progression of the disease. If the Periodontist sees unhealthy gum tissue which requires surgical treatment she will recommend gum/or bone grafting/proteins, tissue regeneration ( to further remove of disease -causing bacteria), and/or additional pocket reduction. 

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What to expect:

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 Gingival or periodontal flap surgery is indicated in advanced periodontal disease, in which the stability of the teeth are compromised by infection, which displaces ligament and bone. The gingival flap is resected or separated from the bone, exposing the root. The calculus build up on the tooth, down to the root, is removed. As we typically use local anesthesia combined with Sedation to assure your comfort during treatment. Small incisions are made in the gum to allow the doctor to see both tooth and bone. The surrounding alveolar, or exposed bone, may require reforming to ensure proper healing. Gum tissue is returned to the tooth and sutured. A putty like coating spread over the teeth and gums protects the sutures. This coating serves as a kind of bandage and allows the eating of soft foods and drinking of liquids after surgery. The typical procedure takes between one and two hours and usually involves only one or two quadrants per visit. The sutures remain in place for approximately one week. Pain medication  is prescribed and antibiotic treatment is begun.

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Post-operative care:

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Surgery will take place in the periodontist's office and usually takes a few hours from the time of surgery until the anesthetic wears off. I takes a few days or weeks for the gums to heal. Ibuprofen (Advil) or Acetaminophen (Tylenol) are very effective for pain. It is not unusual for the teeth to be more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, and /or sweets. This occur as the gum tissue heals and shrinks in size. Brushing two to three times daily with sensitivity toothpaste or using fluoride rinses may alleviate this over time. If sensitivity continues or is severe, professional application of a desesentizing agenty may be required. 

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For a few days, soft diet is recommended, chewing in the opposite side. Consistent and through daily oral hygiene is essential to proper healing of your gum tissues. Brushing, flossing and rinsing with recommended products are critical.

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In most cases, only one half of the mouth is treated at the visit. Please remember to keep all appointments to complete all the treatment.

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 Dental maintenances every three months after surgery, includes deep cleaning and excellent oral hygiene to maintain healthy gums and recurrence of the disease.

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