Periodontal Surgical Procedures

Expert Surgical Care

Periodontal surgery is a type of dental surgery that is used to treat advanced gum disease (periodontitis) and other conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is typically performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.

Periodontal surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area. In some cases, sedation may be used to help keep the patient relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

Periodontal surgery can help to restore the health and function of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is important to follow your periodontist's post-operative care instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.

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IV Sedation Therapy

IV sedation therapy, also known as intravenous sedation, is a type of sedation used in dentistry to help patients relax and feel more comfortable during dental procedures. It involves the administration of sedative drugs through a vein, which allows the medication to work quickly and effectively.

IV sedation is commonly used for patients who experience dental anxiety or fear, have a strong gag reflex, need extensive dental work, or have difficulty sitting still for long periods. It can also be used for patients undergoing oral surgery or other complex dental procedures.

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Gum Graft Surgery

A gum graft, also known as a gingival graft or periodontal plastic surgery, is a procedure used to treat receding gums. Receding gums can be caused by a variety of factors, including periodontal disease, aggressive tooth brushing, genetics, or other health issues.

During a gum graft procedure, a periodontist or oral surgeon will take gum tissue from another part of your mouth, usually the roof of the mouth, and graft it onto the areas where the gums have receded. This helps to cover exposed tooth roots, protect them from decay, and improve the appearance of your smile.

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Osseous Surgery / Pocket Reduction

Osseous surgery, also known as flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure used to treat advanced gum disease (periodontitis). Periodontitis causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. Over time, these pockets can deepen, leading to bone loss and tooth loss.

During osseous surgery, the dentist or periodontist will access the roots of the teeth by lifting the gums away from the teeth. They will then remove the tartar (hardened plaque) and bacteria from the root surfaces and reshape the bone to eliminate the pockets. In some cases, bone grafts or membranes may be used to help regrow lost bone and tissue.

Osseous surgery can help to reduce pocket depth, eliminate bacteria, and promote healing of the gums. It can also help to prevent further bone loss and stabilize the teeth. However, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene habits and follow the dentist's instructions for home care to prevent gum disease from recurring.

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Periodontal Regeneration

Periodontal regeneration is a process aimed at rebuilding the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums, periodontal ligament, and bone, that have been damaged by periodontal disease. The goal of periodontal regeneration is to restore the health and function of the periodontium (the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth) and to prevent tooth loss.

There are several techniques used in periodontal regeneration:

  • Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR): GTR is a surgical procedure in which a barrier membrane is placed between the gum tissue and the tooth root to prevent unwanted soft tissue from growing into the area and allow the bone and connective tissue to regenerate.
  • Bone Grafting: Bone grafting involves placing bone graft material into the areas of bone loss around the teeth to stimulate the body's natural ability to regenerate bone.
  • Growth Factors: Growth factors, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or platelet-rich fibrin (PRF), can be used to stimulate tissue regeneration and promote healing.
  • Enamel Matrix Derivative (EMD): EMD is a protein-based gel that can stimulate the growth of new bone and attachment tissue.
  • Dental Implants: In cases where tooth loss has occurred due to severe periodontal disease, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth and restore function.

Periodontal regeneration techniques can be highly effective in restoring the health and function of the periodontium and preventing further tooth loss. However, the success of these techniques depends on various factors, including the extent of the damage, the patient's overall health, and their commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene. It is important to consult with a periodontist or dental specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.

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Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a dental procedure performed to expose more of the tooth's surface, usually to restore a tooth that is decayed, broken below the gumline, or has insufficient tooth structure for a restoration like a crown or bridge.

During the procedure, the gum tissue and sometimes the underlying bone are reshaped to expose more of the tooth. This allows the dentist to place a restoration that adequately covers and protects the tooth. Crown lengthening can also be done to correct a "gummy smile," where the teeth appear short because of excess gum tissue.

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Oral Biopsy

An oral biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the mouth and examined under a microscope to diagnose a variety of conditions, including oral cancer, infections, and other diseases.

An oral biopsy is typically performed under local anesthesia to numb the area. The procedure itself is usually quick and relatively painless. After the biopsy, the tissue sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results of the biopsy can help determine the cause of the abnormal tissue and guide further treatment, if necessary.

It's important to follow post-operative instructions after an oral biopsy to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

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Guided Bone Regeneration

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) is a dental procedure used to rebuild bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease, tooth extraction, or other reasons. It is often performed in preparation for dental implant placement or to improve the support and stability of natural teeth.

During guided bone regeneration, a dental surgeon will place a special membrane over the area where bone regeneration is needed. This membrane acts as a barrier, preventing soft tissue from invading the healing area and allowing bone cells to regenerate. In some cases, bone graft materials may also be used to stimulate new bone growth.

The membrane used in guided bone regeneration is typically made of biocompatible materials that are absorbed by the body over time. As the bone regenerates, the membrane dissolves or is removed by the dentist.

Guided bone regeneration is a complex procedure that requires careful planning and skill. It is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the procedure. Following the procedure, patients may be prescribed antibiotics and pain medication to aid in healing. Regular follow-up visits with the dentist are necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure successful bone regeneration.

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Peri-implantitis

Peri-implantitis is a condition that affects dental implants. It is characterized by inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding a dental implant, similar to periodontal disease around natural teeth.

Peri-implantitis can occur when bacteria build up on and around the implant, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gums (peri-implant mucositis) and, if left untreated, progressing to peri-implantitis, which involves bone loss around the implant.

Common signs and symptoms of peri-implantitis include:

  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums around the implant
  • Gum recession around the implant
  • Pus around the implant
  • Loose or wobbly implant
  • Pain or discomfort around the implant
  • Changes in the appearance of the gums around the implant

Peri-implantitis can be caused by various factors, including poor oral hygiene, smoking, a history of periodontal disease, and poorly placed implants. Treatment for peri-implantitis typically involves nonsurgical or surgical interventions to remove the bacteria and infe

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Sinus Augmentation

Sinus augmentation, also known as sinus lift surgery, is a surgical procedure used to increase the amount of bone in the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. This procedure is often necessary when there is not enough bone height in the upper jaw to support dental implants.

During a sinus augmentation procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted upward, and bone graft material is placed into the space created between the jaw and the sinus membrane. This bone graft material helps stimulate new bone growth, increasing the height of the bone in the area. Once the bone has healed and has become strong enough, dental implants can be placed securely into the newly augmented bone.

Sinus augmentation is a safe and effective procedure that can help restore the bone in the upper jaw and provide the necessary support for dental implants.

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TMJ Disorder

TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. Treatment for TMJ disorder by a dentist can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms experienced by the patient. Night guards are usually recommended.

Orthodontics Related Procedures

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Frenectomy

A frenectomy is simply the removal of a frenum in the mouth. A frenum is a muscular attachment between two tissues. The limited movement of the lip caused by the frenum can lead to mouth breathing or extended tissue can come between the two front teeth and create a gap (diastema).

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Gingivectomy

Gingivectomy is best described as a procedure where excess gum tissue is re-contoured during or after orthodontic treatment.