If you're diagnosed with periodontal disease, we may recommend periodontal surgery.  Periodontal surgery is necessary when the tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical treatment.

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The following are some of the most common types of surgical treatments: 

 

Pocket Reduction Procedures

Pocket reduction begins with flap surgery. The gum is separated from the tooth and later reattached in a new position. In most cases, osseous surgery is also done. This involves reshaping and smoothing the bone.  Pocket reduction surgery is a common periodontal procedure which has been proven effective at eliminating bacteria, reducing inflammation and saving teeth

 

Regenerative Procedures

Periodontal disease is an extremely serious progressive condition which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.  Periodontal disease occurs when a bacterial infection in the gum pockets causes the bone and gum tissue to recede away from the teeth.  The quality and quantity of bone and gum tissue is greatly reduced as the gum pockets continue to deepen.  Fortunately, prompt diagnosis combined with effective regenerative procedures can halt the progression of the disease and save the teeth.

There are many regenerative dental procedures available to restore health to the gums, bone and teeth. 

 

Crown Lengthening / Gummy Smile Correction

Crown lengthening is generally performed in order to improve the health of the gum tissue, or to prepare the mouth for restorative or cosmetic procedures.  In addition, crown lengthening procedures can also be used to correct a “gummy” smile, where teeth are covered with excess gum tissue.  Crown lengthening exposes more of the natural tooth by reshaping or re-contouring bone and gum tissue.  This treatment can be performed on a single tooth, many teeth or the entire gum line, to expose a pleasant, aesthetically pleasing smile.

 

Soft Tissue Grafts

Soft tissue grafting is often necessary to combat gum recession.  Periodontal disease, trauma, aging, over brushing, and poor tooth positioning are the leading causes of gum recession which can lead to tooth-root exposure in severe cases.

When the roots of the teeth become exposed, eating hot and cold foods can be uncomfortable, decay is more prevalent and the aesthetic appearance of the smile is altered.  The main goal of soft tissue grafting is to either cover the exposed root or to thicken the existing gum tissue in order to halt further tissue loss.