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Aug
Can Periodontal Surgery Save My Teeth?
Periodontal surgery is an advanced periodontal treatment generally reserved as a last resort to treat periodontal disease. If Dr. Christine Karapetian and our team from Washington Periodontics in Burke, Virginia, can’t control the spread of periodontal disease through noninvasive means, we may recommend periodontal surgery to save your teeth and preserve your smile. In this post, we answer your questions about periodontal surgery so you’ll know what to expect.Â
What is periodontal disease, and when is periodontal surgery necessary to treat it?
Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that causes symptoms such as inflamed and tender gums, gum pain, painful chewing, receding gums, and loose teeth. If not controlled, periodontal disease can cause major tooth loss. Often, nonsurgical treatments like deep cleaning and antibiotics can help get the infection under control. If these treatments aren’t successful in managing the infection and reducing bacterial pockets around your gumline, periodontal surgery may be needed.
What’s the goal of periodontal surgery?
The ultimate goal of periodontal treatments is to save your natural teeth. Through periodontal surgery, Dr. Karapetian can:
- Stop the infection from progressingÂ
- Repair your gums and periodontal tissues that anchor your teeth and promote healing Â
- Keep periodontal disease from causing further harm in the future
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What are the different types of periodontal surgery?
Periodontal surgery may entail the following procedures:
Flap surgery (aka pocket reduction surgery) entails lifting back your gums to cleanse periodontal pockets of plaque and tartar buildup. This reduces the size and depth of bacterial pockets, so you can keep the area clean. The gums are then sutured to allow them to heal and reattach to your teeth.
Soft tissue grafts use soft tissues from the roof of your mouth to cover exposed tooth roots from receding gums caused by periodontal disease. This helps your gums to regenerate and heal.Â
How long does it take for my gums to heal after periodontal surgery?
It may take one to two weeks or longer for your gums to fully heal after periodontal surgery. A successful treatment will curtail the spread of the infection, prevent further damage, and improve your gum health.Â
Is periodontal surgery painful?
No. You’ll be given an anesthetic to keep you from feeling a thing. Afterward, you may feel soreness, swelling, or pain. OTC pain medication and ice packs can help relieve these symptoms. Eat only soft foods for two weeks to avoid aggravating your gums by chewing. Don’t smoke or drink alcoholic beverages, as these can impair your healing and recovery.
Where can I go for safe, painless periodontal surgery near me?
We’ve got you covered at Washington Periodontics in Burke, VA. To schedule a consultation for gum surgery, contact Dr. Christine Karapetian at (571) 569-7540.
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Dr. Christine Karapetian is a respected periodontist and dental implant specialist in Burke, VA. She earned her DDS and a certificate in Periodontics from New York University College of Dentistry, where she also served as chief resident. A Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, Dr. Karapetian is a fellow and member of many reputable organizations, also serving as President of the Northern Virginia Dental Society and Co-Chair of Give Kids a Smile-Northern Virginia. Recognized for her expertise and leadership, she has received numerous accolades, including being named a “Top Dentist” in Periodontics by multiple magazines.