Don’t ignore bleeding gums
Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal Surgery
Surgical procedures to manage gum disease generally aim to try to regenerate bone that has been lost or clean root surfaces that are inaccessible with simple deep cleaning, as well as to help improve the shape and position of the gums to make it easier for you to be able to access and clean the areas at home. It is usually carried out after Steps 1 and 2, as it may not be required if the gum health improves with non-surgical treatments and this is always carried out first.
Types of Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal surgery, if required, may take two approaches. The first is a resective approach, where the gum and bone is reshaped to improve your access for cleaning and is very predictable and success rates are high. The second approach of regenerative surgical treatments have been shown to regrow up to 70% of the lost bone but this approach is not possible around most teeth and is only suitable in particular situations, depending on the pattern of bone loss. X-rays can help to assess whether an area may be suitable, and your periodontist may suggest this as an option for you.
Procedure & Recovery
Surgical gum procedures are minimally invasive and are considered minor types of surgery. Specialist periodontists are trained in handling gum tissue finely and delicately and using minimally invasive techniques. We would usually remove any sutures after 2 weeks. These are small and sit between the teeth in most cases. They are carried out using local anesthetic, which you can go back to work and carry out your daily activities as normal.
There are of course some things to be careful of in terms of eating and drinking soon afterwards and how to keep the area clean. Some mild discomfort is expected after the treatment and this is manageable usually with simple painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen
Periodontal Surgery FAQs
Periodontal surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort may occur afterward, but it is usually manageable with over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Recovery from periodontal surgery is generally smooth, with most patients able to resume daily activities quickly. Sutures are typically removed after two weeks. You may experience minor swelling or bruising, but this is less common due to the minimally invasive nature of the surgery.
After surgery, it is recommended to avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that may irritate the surgical area. Soft foods and cool liquids are ideal for the first few days. Your periodontist will provide detailed instructions on post-surgery care.
You will be given specific instructions on how to clean the surgical area, often involving gentle rinsing with a special mouthwash and avoiding direct brushing of the affected site for a few days. Keeping the area clean is essential for proper healing.