If you’ve developed problems with your gums, you might require the services of a periodontist. Depending upon what kind of treatment you need, you might need gum grafts or another type of gum surgery. If you know what to expect from surgery, you’re likely to have a better experience and a faster recovery time.
Why Do I Need Gum Surgery?
Periodontics is the school of dentistry that specializes in treatment of the periodontal tissues, otherwise known as the gums. Gums are vital to the health of your teeth, since they provide support so your teeth remain stationary. When you experience gum disease, the gums receded and pull back from the teeth. Your teeth become loose and can even fall out if the gum disease is left untreated.
Minor gum issues, like gingivitis, can be treated easily, but as the inflammation progresses and becomes infection, more extensive treatment is required. Treatment for more serious gum disease can include:
- Deep cleaning, also known as planing and scaling
- Gum grafts to shore up the gum tissue
- Flap surgery to treat deep pockets around the teeth
This type of surgery is performed by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating the gums. You’ll generally receive local anesthetic and, if preferred, conscious sedation for additional comfort.
Aftercare for Gum Surgery
You’ll receive instructions from your periodontist about how to take care of yourself after your gum surgery. This will probably include prescription medications, including painkillers and antibiotics, which you should take exactly as instructed. You’ll have to avoid brushing or flossing for a period of time, and you’ll probably use a prescription mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup.
Other ways to stay comfortable after surgery include eating soft foods, avoiding hot foods and beverages, and resting for a day or two. If you’ve had a gum graft, you might have had tissue removed from the roof of your mouth, which will also require some time to heal. If you have any unusual symptoms, like fever, unusual bleeding or swelling, or symptoms that seem worse or that linger, contact your periodontist for additional instructions.
If you’re concerned about the welfare of your teeth, call our office today to schedule an appointment with our caring team!
