May 17, 2007, Los Angeles and Beverly Hills -- Flap surgery refers to the loosening of gum tissue from the bone to expose and cleans any underlying tooth structure.
It's most commonly used as a treatment for advanced periodontal disease, usually only in the event that scaling and root planning have failed to eliminate an entire decay pocket.
Flap surgery also is used when bone loss requires surgical correction. The procedure can only be performed on two quadrants of the mouth with each visit.
PROCESS
Periodontal flap surgery begins with the application of a local anesthesia. Small incisions then are made into your gums, allowing the dentist to life the gum back, exposing the tooth and bone structure.
The area then is cleaned, removing all tarter and infected tissue.
Because periodontal disease causes bone loss, the bone frequently must be re-contoured for the gum to properly heal.
At the completion of the procedure, the gums are sutured into place on top of the bone. The stitches will be removed after, approximately, one week. Post-procedure pain killers and antibiotics usually are prescribed
The entire process usually last from one to three hours.
POST SURGERY
It's important to maintain proper oral-hygiene practices while the surgical site is healing. Brush and floss the rest of your mouth as you would normally. If the surgical site isn't covered by a periodontal pack, you can use a normal toothbrush to gently remove any plaque from your teeth. '
Your dentist commonly will prescribe a mouth rinse containing chlorhexidine. While the rinse won't remove tooth plaque, it will kill any bacteria, allowing your teeth to properly heal.
You may experience some post-surgical, which you can minimize with an ice pack. You'll also likely experience some gum recession, and increased risk of root cavities and sensitivities to extreme hot and cold.
LEARN MORE
Call cosmetic dentist Dr. Anthony Mobasser today at 1.310.550.0383 or email us to schedule an appointment and learn more about teeth whitening.
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