Restore the Health of Your Smile with Gum Flap Surgery
When non-surgical methods are not enough to address the effects of gum disease, gum flap surgery can restore the health of your smile. When left untreated, periodontal disease can cause extensive damage to the supporting structures of your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss. At Periodontal Associates of Jackson. P.A., Drs. Roger B. Parkes and R. Clarke Stewart can perform a flap procedure to stop the progression of gum disease. It involves incising the gums and temporarily pulling the tissue away from the teeth to treat the roots and jawbone directly. Our Jackson, MS, dental practice provides multiple forms of anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
Candidates for Flap Surgery
A flap procedure is typically recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease, or periodontitis, that has not responded to non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing. This treatment can remove built-up plaque and tartar around the roots and restore the health of gum tissue. In some cases, an additional procedure can be performed at the same time to repair bone tissue affected by gum disease. Your dentist can determine if gum flap surgery is right for you by examining your oral and overall health during an initial consultation.
The Procedure
First, one of our dental hygienists will remove all plaque and tartar from around your teeth. Then, we will numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Parkes or Stewart will make an incision and create a small flap of gum tissue to access the underlying structures.
Next, the dentist will remove all inflamed tissue, plaque, and tartar from between the teeth and around the roots. In some cases, Dr. Parkes or Stewart will also perform a procedure known as osseous recontouring to smooth bone defects and help prevent infection from returning. When he is finished, Dr. Parkes or Stewart will replace the gum tissue and close all incisions using sutures. He may also cover the surgical site with an intraoral bandage to protect the area while you heal.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients experience some discomfort after a flap procedure. Depending on your needs, we may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter medicine. It is important to relax after surgery, as strenuous activity may cause the treated area to bleed. For the first 24 hours, you can rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Typically, it only takes a few days to recover from flap surgery. During this time, eat soft, cool foods such as pudding or gelatin. Propping your head with pillows and applying cold or ice packs can minimize bleeding and help relieve pain and swelling. Avoid smoking, using a straw, or spitting until your gums have healed. While you should continue to brush your teeth, be gentle around the treated area to prevent irritation.
At Periodontal Associates of Jackson, P.A., we provide comprehensive treatment for all stages of gum disease.
A flap procedure can save teeth affected by gum disease. Once you heal from a gum flap surgery, your gums should be pink and healthy again and you can prevent the recurrence of gum disease by brushing at least twice and flossing at least once per day. Your dentist can monitor the health of your gums at your six-month cleaning and examination. We can also provide you with instructions on the most effective methods for protecting your periodontal health at home.
Protect Your Oral Health
Periodontal disease is a common condition that can have serious consequences. At Periodontal Associates of Jackson, P.A., we provide comprehensive treatment for all stages of gum disease. For more information about gum flap surgery or the other gum disease treatment options we offer, contact our office online or call us at (601) 956-1230 today.
