mid

What is Flap Surgery?

What is Flap Surgery?

Gum disease, especially the more severe periodontal disease should be taken care of as quickly as possible. Without proper care from your dentist, your periodontal disease may not be able to heal from a professional cleaning, antibiotics or a procedure known as root planing and scaling. If you have periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend Flag Surgery to repair the damage caused by gum disease.

After your dentist gives you a thorough examination it will be decided what steps to take if gingivitis or periodontal disease is detected. If Flap Surgery is needed the roots of your teeth and repairs to your jawbone will be performed by an oral surgeon or a periodontist. The offices of Dr. Paul Shinto will recommend the best possible procedure before Flap Surgery takes place.

Before your Flap Surgery, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb your gums. Once numbed, the sections of the diseased gums will be pulled back in order to repair bone, if necessary, and clean the roots. After the procedure, your dentist will sew the gum flap back in place before covering it with gauze.

If bone damage is evident, Dr. Paul Shinto or his team may smooth and reshape the bone to stop plaque growth. Grafting from another bone in your body may also be required or your dentist may decide to use man-made materials. Your dentist may also use a liner to help the bone grow. The lining may or may not need to be removed later.

After your Flap Surgery, you will be prescribed painkillers. 24 hours after the procedure your dentist will advise you to rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution several times each day to relieve pain and reduce swelling. You will also need to change your gauze pads and remember to relax after your Flap Surgery. Keep your physical activity to a minimum as it could increase bleeding. Do not smoke, keep your head up with pillows, and eat soft foods while the area heals. You can still brush your teeth; just make sure that you brush gently and carefully.

For more information regarding gum disease prevention and Flap Surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Paul Shinto DDS today.