Types of Gum Surgery
Osseous Surgery
If an infection has caused deep periodontal pockets (5 mm or more) that are beyond the reach of a toothbrush and floss, then gum surgery may be needed to access, clean, and repair the diseased areas. In osseous surgery, a periodontist will create a three-sided flap in the gum tissue with one side still attached to the blood supply. The surgeon can then remove the plaque from the deep pocket and repair any gum tissue or bone loss. After that, self-dissolving stitches are added to close up the area.
Periodontal Regeneration
Sometimes the pattern of bone loss can result in voids in the bone against this tooth. In regeneration, a flap is still opened away from the roots of the teeth like in osseous surgery. The roots are cleaned free of calculus and diseased tissue and then voids are filled in with graft material to help grow back the bone that has been lost. Stitches are placed to close the area and are worn for two weeks after the procedure.
We realize that the idea of any surgery can be frightening, but this type of surgery should not be considered elective. It is necessary to the future health of your teeth and gums and can prevent further infection, damage to soft tissues, and bone loss.
Patients at Periodontal Health Center have various lengths of recovery time depending on how severe their disease is, their overall health, and the type of procedure. We recommend avoiding smoking and tobacco products always, but especially after the procedure.
Dr. Steven Lieber recommends eating cold, soft foods for the first two days following these types of surgery. Examples include ice cream, pudding, cottage cheese, Jell-O, and yogurt. After the first two days, warmer food can be introduced like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, or soups. Many of these are great comfort foods as well. We will ask patients to come back to our office for a follow-up checkup after about two weeks. Patients will most likely be on a more frequent preventative-maintenance schedule for cleanings and checkups as well.
If you have any questions about periodontal health or any procedures, please contact our offices in Tampa and New Port Richey.
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