Periodontal diseases affect the tissues that support the teeth and are fairly common. In The Woodlands, Texas, these diseases can be treated successfully with a combination of good oral hygiene and dental treatment. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the damage caused by the disease. If you are experiencing any problems with your gums or teeth, it is vital to see a periodontist for diagnosis and treatment. The Woodlands periodontist will use the following types of treatments.
Gum Graft Surgery
Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that can restore the appearance of your smile by repairing damaged gums. The periodontist will make incisions on the gums where donor tissue will be inserted, usually taken from the palate or inner cheek. This process stimulates the growth of new gum tissue, giving you a healthy-looking smile.
Laser Treatments to Remove Tartar Under Your Gumline
Using laser technology, your periodontist can remove tartar found under the gumline without causing pain or damage to bone and tissue. Although this treatment is quick and painless, you may feel a slight discomfort afterward. By removing tartar from underneath the gumline, your periodontist can reduce irritation to the roots of your teeth and prevent the onset of periodontal disease.
Bone Grafting and Bone Regeneration Procedures
In a bone grafting procedure, your periodontist will replace the small amount of lost jawbone that supports the teeth with donor tissue or bone from another part of your body. Although this is a simple procedure, you may need to take medications before and after the surgery to prevent complications.
Bone regeneration procedures stimulate delayed or failed to heal jawbone after periodontal surgery. Depending on your specific condition, your periodontist may recommend a genetically engineered protein called BMP-2 (bone morphogenetic protein). You will receive injections at several intervals throughout the healing process, ranging from 3 to 6 months.
Root Planing, Scaling, and Root Surface Resection Procedures
These procedures are designed to unclog your teeth by clearing away bacteria that has accumulated deep in the root surfaces of the teeth. Your periodontist will use a curette tool to clear away decayed tooth structure or remove diseased gum tissue. During this procedure, your periodontist may also use a sander to smooth the tooth root and remove excessive cementum built up around the roots.
Dental Implants
Dental implants can permanently replace missing teeth and support or secure artificial replacement teeth. The implant, made of titanium metal, is surgically planted into the jawbone, integrating with the bone tissue over time. Next, your periodontist will attach an abutment to the implant and affix a replacement crown to the abutment.
Plastic Surgery Procedures to Repair Your Gums
Your periodontist may recommend plastic surgery procedures to repair the soft tissues of your gums if you have receding gum tissue (also called “bony defects”). Soft tissue grafts can be used to fill in these receded areas, with the goal being to improve your smile and provide structural support for your teeth.
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may experience some temporary discomfort after surgery; however, your periodontist will prescribe medication to minimize pain and aid your recovery.
If you are experiencing any problems with your gums or teeth, it is crucial to see a periodontist for diagnosis and treatment. Gum grafting is a surgical procedure that can restore your smile by repairing damaged gums. The periodontist will make incisions on the gum where donor tissue, usually taken from the palate or inner cheek, will be inserted. These specialists focus on customizing your treatment to fit your specific needs.
