Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting tissues around the teeth. It is primarily caused by bacterial infection resulting from poor oral hygiene practices. One of the initial signs of periodontal disease is gingivitis, which manifests as red, swollen gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to more severe forms of periodontal disease, such as periodontitis.
Periodontitis occurs when bacteria invade below the gum line and cause inflammation. This leads to the breakdown of connective tissue and bone supporting the teeth. As a result, pockets form between the gums and teeth, allowing bacteria to thrive and further damage the surrounding structures.
Different Types of Periodontal Surgery
When it comes to treating periodontal disease, there are various surgical options available. The specific type of surgery recommended will depend on the severity and extent of the disease.
- One common type of periodontal surgery is called flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery. During this procedure, the gums are lifted back so that tartar can be removed from deep pockets and the surrounding bone can be smoothed. This helps to reduce pocket depth and makes it easier for patients to keep their teeth clean.
- Another type of periodontal surgery is called soft tissue grafting. This procedure involves taking gum tissue from one area of the mouth and placing it in an area where gum tissue has receded or been lost due to gum disease. Soft tissue grafting can help improve both function and aesthetics by restoring a healthy gumline.
- For patients with more advanced cases, there may be a need for bone grafts or guided tissue regeneration. Bone grafts involve adding synthetic or natural bone material to areas where bone has been lost, while guided tissue regeneration uses special membranes to encourage the growth of new bone and connective tissues.
- In some cases, crown lengthening may also be performed as part of periodontal treatment. This involves removing excess gum tissue in order to expose more tooth surfaces for restorative procedures like dental crowns or bridges.
- It's important to remember that not all patients with periodontal disease will require surgical intervention. In many cases, non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), combined with improved oral hygiene practices, may be sufficient.
If you suspect you have periodontal disease or have been diagnosed with it already, consult with our Port Charlotte dentist who can evaluate your individual case and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored specifically for you.
Benefits of Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery offers several benefits for individuals suffering from advanced gum disease or periodontitis.
- One of the key advantages is that it can effectively halt the progression of the disease and prevent further damage to the gums, teeth, and supporting structures.
- By removing tartar buildup and diseased tissue during surgery, periodontists can restore a healthier environment in the mouth. This helps to promote gum reattachment to the teeth and reduces pocket depths, which are spaces between the teeth and gums where bacteria thrive.
- Improved oral hygiene becomes easier after periodontal surgery as deep cleaning becomes more effective. As a result, patients experience reduced inflammation in their gums, less bleeding while brushing or flossing, and fresher breath.
- Another benefit is that addressing gum disease through surgery can help preserve natural teeth. By eliminating infection-causing bacteria and promoting better oral health practices post-surgery, patients have a higher chance of retaining their natural dentition rather than resorting to tooth extraction or dentures.
- Periodontal surgery can contribute to improved overall health outcomes. Studies have linked untreated gum disease with an increased risk of developing various systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections, among others. Treating gum disease through surgical intervention may help reduce these risks by improving oral health status.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums or loose teeth due to advanced gum disease, don't hesitate! Book an online appointment or call us at (941) 624-4575 to consult with our dentist in Port Charlotte, FL, today! You can also visit us at 4120 Tamiami Trail Suite A, Port Charlotte, FL 33952.