Surgical Periodontics San Antonio, TX
Surgical periodontics can often reverse the effects of severe gum disease. Those with severe gum infections may benefit from surgical periodontics. Among other things, surgical periodontics may help remove bacteria from beneath the gums.
Surgical periodontics are available at AD Perio & Implants in San Antonio and the surrounding area. Let us help you restore your oral health. Call us today at (210) 805-8400 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Understanding Surgical Periodontics
Surgical periodontics, also known as periodontal surgery, is often necessary to treat certain gum diseases. Such conditions may include gingivitis or periodontitis. Surgical periodontics aim to do the following:
- Eliminate bacteria and infection
- Prevent tooth loss
- Reduce gum gaps between teeth
- Regrow damaged bones and tissues
- Reshape the jawbone to lower the risk for bacterial growth in bone crevices
“Surgical periodontics, also known as periodontal or surgery, is often necessary to treat certain gum diseases.”
Conditions That May Require Surgery
In some cases, surgical periodontics may be necessary for patients with gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is a more mild form of gum disease, while periodontitis is a more severe form. With gingivitis, patients may experience some gum redness, swelling, and bleeding. It is usually a result of poor oral hygiene, plaque, and tartar buildup. However, it is easily reversible with professional treatment.
Periodontitis sets in when gingivitis has worsened and advanced and triggered an inflammatory response that destroys both tissue and bone. This inflammatory process causes the gums to begin to separate from the teeth, causing pockets to develop. These pockets trap infection-causing bacteria, potentially leading to tooth loss and bone damage.
“Surgical periodontics may be necessary for patients with gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis.”
Types of Surgical Periodontics
There are several different types of surgical periodontics. These include:
- Bone Grafting. Bone grafting is often necessary when gum disease has damaged the bone surrounding the affected tooth root. The periodontist may use small parts of the patient’s own bone, a synthetic bone, or donated bone to help prevent tooth loss and potentially promote natural bone regrowth.
- Flap Surgery. In flap surgery, the periodontist makes small cuts in the gum and lifts up a section of tissue to remove tartar and bacteria from the tooth and under the gums. The periodontist will then suture the gums back in place, fitting the tissue firmly around the teeth.
- Guided Tissue Regeneration. In guided tissue regeneration, the periodontist places a small piece of material between the bone and gum tissue to stimulate bone regeneration.
- Proteins. Periodontists will occasionally apply a gel containing special proteins to the diseased tooth root to stimulate healthy bone and tissue growth.
- Soft Tissue Grafts. Soft tissue grafts can help restore receded gums. In soft tissue grafts, the periodontist uses a small piece of tissue from the roof of the patient’s mouth or donor tissue to replace the sparse or missing tissue.
“There are several different types of surgical periodontics.”
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Advantages and Disadvantages of Surgical Periodontics
The main advantage of surgical periodontics is clear: reversing the effects of gum disease. This is crucial because untreated gum disease can have disastrous effects. Periodontitis may lead to the development of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and more. By maintaining healthy gums, patients can lessen their risk of systemic health issues while promoting their oral health.
Every surgery comes with its own unique set of risks. These risks vary from procedure to procedure. However, there are some potential complications common to every surgery. Common surgical risks include anesthesia complications, bleeding problems, blood clots, delayed healing, infections, injury, swelling, and more. Patients should keep in mind that we will never recommend surgery unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
“The main advantage of surgical periodontics is clear: reversing the effects of gum disease.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What is surgical periodontics?
Q. Do I need surgical periodontics?
Q. What are the different types of surgical periodontics?
Q. What are the pros and cons of surgical periodontics?
Q. Am I a good candidate for surgical periodontics?
People Also Ask
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Q. What are the different types of gum surgery?
Candidates for Surgical Periodontics
According to Healthline, most people with severe or advanced gum disease are ideal candidates for surgical periodontics. Symptoms of gum disease include the following:
- Bad breath
- Deep pockets forming between the gums and teeth
- Loose teeth
- Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
- Gums that are swollen, red, or bleeding
- Pain when chewing
A periodontist can let a patient know if they may benefit from surgical periodontics. In some cases where the disease is not as advanced, more conservative treatment approaches may be sufficient.
“… most people with severe or advanced gum disease are ideal candidates for surgical periodontics.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What causes periodontal diseases?
A. The primary cause of gingivitis is dental plaque. The bacteria in plaque produce acids, irritating the gums and leading to bleeding, inflammation, redness, and swelling. Severe plaque can also accumulate and harden into calculus or tartar. Periodontal disease often goes unnoticed until it has progressed.
Q. Why is surgical periodontics necessary?
A. Periodontal disease directly affects the health of the gums and jawbone. These hold the teeth in place. Surgical periodontics can help retain the teeth, prevent the gums from recessing, and keep the supporting bone from deteriorating.
Q. Does surgical periodontics hurt?
A. While patients may experience some discomfort, most surgical periodontic procedures are relatively pain-free. We will do everything in our power to keep you safe and comfortable throughout your procedure. We will also provide you with detailed post-operative instructions on how to manage any discomfort after the procedure.
Q. Will insurance cover the cost of surgical periodontics?
A. Each insurance policy is different. It is best to speak directly to an insurance representative to understand what is covered under your dental insurance plan. We can help.
Q. When will I need to return to my general dentist?
A. It depends. We will work closely together with your general dentist to coordinate your overall treatment plan. You will need to see your general dentist regularly after finishing your periodontal surgery to maintain your oral health.
Start Feeling Better – Visit Us Today
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
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Call Us Today
Surgical periodontics can help restore tissues and gums. We at AD Perio & Implants can help. Call us today at 210-805-8400 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Helpful Related Links
- American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). American Academy of Periodontology (AAP). 2023
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Periodontal Disease Page. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Periodontal Disease Page. 2023
- WebMD, What Is a Periodontist?. WebMD, What Is a Periodontist?. 2023
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