Frenchi Mark E DDS

Periodontal Surgery: What Can I Expect? Why Do I Need Periodontal Surgery?

To Clean And Reduce Periodontal Pockets... As you probably have learned by now, the main cause of periodontal disease is plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If the plaque is not removed thoroughly, toxins or poisons produced by bacteria in the plaque irritate the gums and destroy supporting tissues around the teeth, forming pockets. Eventually the plaque hardens into a rough deposit called calculus or tartar. Over time, as more plaque and calculus build up, the gums continue to pull away from the teeth. Gum and bone attachment to the teeth are lost and pockets deepen. Affected teeth can become loose and eventually may be lost. You cannot keep deep pockets clean and free of plaque just by brushing and flossing alone. The pockets also may be too deep even for your dentist or hygienist to clean. Therefore, your periodontist may decide that surgery is necessary to remove plaque and calculus below the gumline. Your periodontist will reduce the pockets and position the gums to minimize areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide.

To Reshape Damaged Bone... If bone loss has occurred, your periodontist might perform osseous (bone) surgery. This is done to smooth the uneven or irregular surface of the damaged bone and promote healing of the periodontal pocket.