Gum surgery is a surgical procedure performed to treat gum diseases. Gum diseases occur when the tissues around the teeth become inflamed and damaged. If these diseases progress, gum surgery may be necessary.
What is Gum Surgery?
Gum surgery is a procedure that involves cutting or reshaping the gum tissue. During the surgery, the underlying bone can also be reshaped. This procedure can be performed in a way that will allow the damaged bone tissue to regenerate or to repair bone tissue that has been damaged.
When is it Done?
Gum surgery may be necessary in the treatment of gum diseases and some other dental procedures. The following are situations that may require surgery:
- Periodontitis: A serious gum disease that occurs when the bone tissue around the teeth becomes inflamed and damaged.
- Gum recession: A condition that occurs when the gums around the teeth recede.
- Gingivitis: A gum disease that occurs when the gums around the teeth become mildly inflamed.
- Dental implants: A dental treatment that involves placing artificial tooth roots into the jawbone. If there is not enough bone or gum tissue required for dental implants, surgery may be necessary.
- Cosmetic purposes: Surgery can also be performed for cosmetic purposes to make the teeth appear longer or shorter.
How is Gum Surgery Performed?
The surgery is usually performed by a dentist or periodontist. Local anesthesia is typically applied during the procedure to prevent pain or discomfort. The gum can be cut and removed or reshaped during the procedure.
The way the procedure is performed varies depending on the type of gum disease and the size of the area to be treated. However, the following steps are generally followed:
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied during the procedure.
- Cutting: Damaged tissues caused by gum disease are cut and removed.
- Shaping: If there is bone loss due to gum disease, the bone can be reshaped.
- Sutures: Incisions in the gums are closed with stitches. There are also simpler operations that do not require stitches.
- Healing: The healing process after gum surgery takes about a few weeks. Your dentist will provide you with information on oral hygiene and how to clean and care for your teeth.
FAQ
How Long Does Gum Surgery Take?
The duration of gum surgery varies depending on the size of the area to be treated and the techniques used during the procedure. A small procedure can take only a few minutes, while a larger procedure can take several hours. You can get the most accurate information about the duration of the procedure from your dentist.
Does Gum Surgery Cause Pain?
Some side effects such as pain, swelling, sensitivity and bleeding can occur after the procedure. The severity of these side effects varies depending on the type of surgery, the size of the procedure and the patient's condition.
Pain can usually last for a few days after the procedure. It occurs due to cutting the gum tissue, suturing or sensitizing the area where the procedure is performed. Pain can be controlled with mild to moderate painkillers.
Swelling and sensitivity can also occur in the first few days after the procedure. It is important to follow the oral care methods recommended by your dentist during the healing process. These recommendations can speed up the healing process and reduce the duration and severity of pain, swelling and other side effects.
If you have any concerns about pain or other side effects after the procedure, it is recommended that you consult your dentist. Your dentist will recommend appropriate medication or other methods to reduce pain.
How Long Does it Take to Heal After Gum Surgery?
The average healing time after the surgery is about 10-14 days. However, this can vary from person to person.
