Surgery for Gum Disease

Gingivitis, or mild gum disease, can usually be treated simply. Treatment involves proper brushing, flossing, and eating healthy. Regular professional cleanings by your West Hollywood dentist are also imperative. If this is not done, or not successful, gingivitis can quickly develop into periodontitis, or severe gum disease.

Periodontal disease can sometimes be eliminated with a scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque and tartar from the gum line and just below the gum line. If this is not effective, surgical procedures are necessary.

Periodontal surgery in West Hollywood

Gum flap surgery is a more extensive version of scaling and root planing. For this procedure, incisions are made in the gums so they can be pulled back. This allows our expert more access to the roots, so they can remove the plaque and bacteria there. The gums are then set back into place and stitched together.

Bone and tissue grafts are necessary if the disease has reached a critical point. After a time, if it is not treated, periodontitis can cause the gums and underlying bone to recede and diminish. This can leave the tooth roots exposed, which can cause damage and severe sensitivity. Tissue can be taken from elsewhere in the mouth, elsewhere on the body, or from a donor to protect the teeth and restore structure.