What is periodontal surgery?

Periodontal surgery is a minor surgical procedure done under local anaesthetic for persistent non resolving sites of inflammation after non-surgical debridement. It is usually carried out for  patients with a high level of plaque control.  Periodontal surgery has the following benefits:
  • better visualization of the roots and removing any calculus or bacterial plaque under the gums
  • reducing any pockets and inflammation around the teeth
  • slowing the progression of bone loss
  • reducing the risk of tooth loss 
The risks of this treatment are:
  • pain swelling and bruising and responds to simple painkillers and usually resolves over a few days
  • increase in dental sensitivity to temperature
  • gum recession and the appearance of longer teeth
  • infection of the gums or the root end of the teeth
  • persistence or relapse of pocketing
  • temporary increase in mobility which reduces with time
Low plaque levels have been shown to maximise the healing outcome, therefore, monthly hygienist visits are usually necessary after periodontal surgery for 3 months. The site of the surgery is assessed about 12 weeks from the date of the surgery.
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