Healthy gums do far more than frame your smile—they anchor your teeth and protect your overall oral health. When disease goes too far, regular care won’t cut it. Periodontal surgery may become necessary to stop damage, save teeth, and restore stability. Here’s what you need to know about when it’s required, how it works, and what recovery involves.
When Is Periodontal Surgery Necessary?
Not every case of gum trouble needs surgery. But when gum disease reaches an advanced stage (called periodontitis), deep cleaning may not reach all the infected tissue. At that point, surgery can become the most effective option.
Here are signs that surgery may be recommended:
- Gums that pull away from the teeth
- Pockets deeper than 5mm between teeth and gums
- Bone loss around the teeth
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Severe bleeding when brushing or flossing
If you’ve tried scaling and root planing and still notice issues, a periodontist may suggest surgical care. It’s important not to delay once your provider brings this up. Waiting can lead to tooth loss and worsening bone damage. That’s why many patients from the area who seek periodontal treatment in Crestwood, IL, do it early—when the signs first appear—to avoid more serious complications later on.
Types of Periodontal Surgery Procedures
Depending on the issue and how far the disease has progressed, different kinds of procedures may be used. Each one targets specific problems and helps restore gum health.
1. Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)
The surgeon gently lifts the gums away from the teeth to remove tartar buildup deep below the surface. Once cleaned, the gums are placed back so they fit tightly around the teeth.
2. Soft Tissue Grafts
If your gums have receded, this procedure uses tissue from your mouth (or a donor) to cover exposed roots. It helps reduce sensitivity and restores the natural gumline.
3. Bone Grafting
When gum disease has destroyed bone, grafts help rebuild the structure. Bone from another part of your body, a donor, or synthetic material is placed in the damaged area to promote regrowth.
4. Guided Tissue Regeneration
This technique helps bone and gum tissue grow back. A small mesh is inserted between the bone and gum tissue, keeping the gum from growing into the bone’s space, giving the bone time to regrow.
5. Crown Lengthening
Sometimes, there’s too much gum covering a tooth. This procedure removes extra gum and bone tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. It may be needed before placing a crown.
Each is tailored to the patient’s needs, and your gum specialist near you will help decide which one is right for your case.
Step-by-Step Breakdown: What to Expect During Surgery
Understanding what happens on the day of the procedure can ease a lot of worries.
Before Surgery:
- Your provider will take X-rays and possibly a 3D scan.
- You’ll receive detailed instructions, like avoiding certain medicines and eating beforehand if needed.
- Local anesthesia will be used to numb the area completely. In some cases, sedation might be offered.
During Surgery:
- The provider makes small cuts to access the root surfaces and clean the infection.
- Any necessary repairs—like grafting or reshaping bone—are completed.
- The area is stitched, and a dressing may be applied.
After Surgery:
- You’ll rest briefly before heading home with clear recovery instructions.
This process might sound intense, but it’s usually done in one visit and helps prevent serious dental issues later.
Recovery Timeline and Aftercare Tips
Recovery is generally smooth when you follow your dentist’s instructions.
What to Expect in the First Few Days:
- Some swelling, slight bleeding, or mild discomfort
- Prescription or over-the-counter pain relief
- A soft-food diet for a few days
- Mouth rinses to help with healing.
Key Aftercare Tips:
- Try to not brush near the surgical site for a few days
- Don’t smoke—this slows healing
- Follow up with your provider as scheduled
- Eat nutrient-rich, soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs
Most people begin to feel back to normal within 7–10 days, though full healing can take a few weeks. A follow-up visit ensures everything is progressing well. If you’re unsure about anything during recovery, contact us for guidance.
Benefits of Periodontal Surgery
Gum surgery might sound intimidating, but the benefits are worth it, especially if you’re dealing with long-standing gum disease.
- Stops gum disease from progressing
- Protects teeth from loosening or falling out
- Restores gum and bone structure
- Improves appearance and confidence
- Makes it easier to keep your mouth clean at home
When caught early, even the more advanced gum issues can be treated successfully. Patients who commit to maintenance afterward often keep their teeth for life.
If you’re searching for gum disease treatment near you, don’t wait until the symptoms worsen. Early action gives you better results.
Risks and Considerations
As with any medical procedure, there are some risks, though they are rare when done by an experienced provider.
Potential risks include:
- Infection
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Gum recession
- Minor bleeding
- Reaction to anesthesia
Talk to your dentist if you have medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease. They’ll work with your doctor to manage the procedure safely. The benefits typically outweigh the risks when gum health is at stake.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let gum disease steal your smile. Periodontal surgery helps protect what matters most—your natural teeth. If you’re seeing warning signs, take action now. Family Dental Care is here to guide you each step of the way. Call today to schedule your consultation and restore your oral health with confidence. Your future smile depends on it.