What is the Need for a Dental Flap Surgery?

Dental Flap Surgery

If you have receding gums and notice they are not snug around your teeth, you may have been recommended to have gum flap surgery. When our gums recede and become loose around our teeth, bacteria and plaque can enter the area and collect. The bacteria are collected in the pockets of our gums, and if not treated this can cause damage or serious issues.

When you have receding gums normal brushing and flossing is not able to clean out the bacteria that has collected in the pockets. Not treating the issue can lead to unstable teeth, or even tooth loss. Attending your regular visits to our office is important, so we can monitor any issues with your teeth and gums, and provide the necessary treatment.

At West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we have many periodontal services to help patients with receding gums. Gingival flap surgery is also known as gum flap surgery, and can help restore a patient’s gums. Our skilled doctors have years of experience in periodontics, and we work with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan that fits your needs. We welcome new patients to our practice, and always strive to provide quality and affordable dental care you can trust.

How Does Dental Flap Surgery Work?

When you arrive for your appointment, we will use local anesthetic to numb the area and keep you comfortable and pain free. Our doctor will gently pull back a section of your gum tissue and clean the roots of your teeth. If there is any bone damage, we will repair that as well.

Once the area is cleaned and bacteria free, your gum will be sewn back into place. During the procedure we can smooth or reshape the bone to avoid plaque from collecting in certain areas in the future. Bone grafting can be used to help repair the area, and allow the bone to grow back properly.

How Is the Recovery After Dental Flap Surgery?

After your surgery patients can expect the recovery to be a few days. Our staff will discuss at-home care instructions for you to follow while you heal. If you experience any pain or complications, we encourage you to contact our office right away. Following the instructions is important to avoid complications and allow the are to heal properly.

What Can I Do at Home To Help the Healing Process?

  • Use over the counter pain medications if needed or prescribed by our doctors.
  • Follow a soft food diet as you heal. Solid foods can be added back gradually.
  • Rinse with warm salt water a few times a day to clean out the area and aid in healing.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24-48 hours as this can cause bleeding.
  • Carefully brush your teeth twice daily.
  • Do not use a straw. This type of sucking motion can cause issues with healing.
  • Avoid tobacco products as this can impact the healing process.
  • Take care of the area and change out the gauze as needed.

Dental flap surgery can help repair damaged gums and bone. This type of procedure has a high success rate, and your gums should become pink and healthy again. Patients may experience some sensitivity after the procedure, and antibiotics may be recommended to prevent infection.

Would You Like To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about how dental flap surgery may help you, contact West Cobb Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, and our staff will be happy to schedule your appointment.