Surgical Gum Disease Treatment Options

Bacteria existing in our mouths make up a sticky material known as plaque. If we follow a proper daily brushing and flossing routine, it can be removed. However, the remaining plaque turns into a hardened form called tartar, which can only be removed by visiting a dentist. If tartar is allowed to build up, then gum disease can develop and harm the smile. Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston can provide surgical gum disease solutions in Houston, TX to combat gum disease.

There are two stages of gum disease. The initial stage is called gingivitis, whereas a more severe form is known as periodontitis. Gingivitis is the stage in which the plaque in our mouth causes inflammation of our gums. Symptoms of gingivitis include red and swollen gums that bleed easily while cleaning the teeth. Since gingivitis is the initial form of gum disease, it can be treated by following a proper oral hygiene routine.

In most cases, patients in Houston do not even notice the signs because there are no apparent signs. Gingivitis becomes periodontitis when it is left untreated and causes inflammation around the tooth. In this stage, your gums form deep pockets after pulling away from your infected tooth. The infection further spreads below your gumline, damaging your bone and the soft tissue that supports your teeth. If this stage is left untreated, your infected teeth may become loose and end up falling out or being removed. So, if you are looking for a permanent solution to gum disease, Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston can help with it.

Surgical Treatment Options For Gum Disease

There are a variety of treatment options to control the infection. When gum disease reaches a severe level, we use surgical treatment options to cure the condition. These treatment options include gingivectomy, pocket reduction surgery, bone grafting, and a few more. The type of treatment option we choose depends on the severity of the gum disease.

Gingivectomy

Gingivectomy is a procedure in which a damaged portion of the gum tissue is removed to prevent further spreading of the infection. The number of sessions that it takes depends upon the amount of gum tissue to be removed. A local anesthetic is given to numb the area where the treatment has to be done. Equipment, such as a scalpel, is used to remove the damaged portion. This procedure is also known as soft tissue incision. After removing the infected part of your gum, we use a laser tool to shape the gumline and place a bandage on that area to better heal.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Pocket reduction surgery, also known as flap or osseous surgery, is performed when the non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing do not work. Pocket reduction surgery is performed to remove the hardened tartar from the deep areas to reduce the size of the pockets, which is done by lifting back your gums. After cleaning the area, the gum is placed back.

Bone Grafting Regeneration

Bone grafting is performed when your bone becomes damaged. In addition to being used for dental implants, bone grafting is also used to rebuild bone tissue lost because of periodontitis. A synthetic or natural bone is used for replacing the bone that has been damaged or lost. It helps the bone to regenerate and realign with your teeth. Another technique can also be performed, which is known as tissue regeneration is performed for the regrowth of the tissue.

Growth Factors Gem-21 (rhPDGF-BB)

Our specialists might recommend a laboratory made growth factor, GEM 21S® Growth-factor Enhanced Matrix, to stimulate wound healing and bone regeneration of periodontal (gum) and/or osseous defects (tooth sockets). The liquid form of the biologic material is mixed with a bone grafting material. The periodontal and bone healing after the combination of the growth factor plus the grafting material have shown to be superior to the one obtained with a bone graft alone.

Learn More About Your Treatment Options

Periodontal and Implants Surgeons of Houston welcomes patients across the Houston metro to have a consultation and see if any of our surgical gum disease treatments can restore the health of your smile. For further information, please call Periodontal and Implant Surgeons of Houston at (713) 785-9599 today. You can also contact us online.

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