When Periodontal Surgery is Needed
If gum disease has progressed beyond its early stage, periodontal surgery may be necessary to effectively remove bacteria and tartar, reduce gum pocket depth, and restore lost tissue. Without treatment, gum disease continues to worsen, affecting not only the appearance of your smile but also your dental health, oral function, and overall well-being.
The Importance of Surgical Treatment
Proper surgical care, combined with ongoing maintenance, can help reduce the risk of tooth loss, prevent further damage to the bone and soft tissues, and decrease complications from health conditions linked to gum disease.
Gum disease typically starts with poor oral hygiene, leading to a buildup of dental plaque—a sticky film colonized by harmful bacteria. These bacteria trigger inflammation in the gums. If left unchecked, this inflammation causes tissue damage and the formation of periodontal pockets between the gums and teeth. As these pockets deepen, they become harder to clean, and bacteria continue to thrive. When the pocket depth exceeds 5mm, making deep cleanings ineffective, gum surgery is often recommended.
Benefits of Pocket Reduction Surgery
Pocket reduction surgery accomplishes several key goals:
- Removes bacteria and tartar from beneath the gums and the surfaces of tooth roots
- Halts damage to the underlying bone and reshapes the bone as needed
- Makes it easier to maintain effective oral hygiene and keep the area clean
Types of Periodontal Surgery
One common procedure for pocket reduction is flap surgery. In this procedure, the gum tissue is gently lifted away from the teeth and bone, allowing the dentist to clean and treat the area before suturing the tissue back in place. Some practitioners now use soft tissue laser procedures to reduce pocket depth as a less invasive alternative.
