Periodontal Surgery in Dunwoody, GA

At Brightworks Dentistry, we offer several types of periodontal surgery, each tailored to address specific needs. Here’s a look at the most common procedures:

Flap Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)

Flap surgery is one of the most common types of periodontal surgery. It’s designed to reduce the depth of gum pockets, making it easier to clean the teeth and gums and prevent further progression of periodontal disease.

• Procedure: During flap surgery, the periodontist gently lifts the gums away from the teeth to access the roots and bone. The roots are then cleaned of plaque and tartar, and any damaged bone is smoothed to reduce areas where bacteria can hide. The gums are then repositioned and sutured back into place, creating a snug fit around the teeth.
• Benefits: Flap surgery helps to reduce pocket depth, making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and reducing the risk of further bone loss and gum recession.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure used to rebuild or regenerate bone that has been lost due to periodontal disease. This is often necessary when the bone supporting the teeth has been destroyed, making the teeth unstable.

• Procedure: During a bone graft, the periodontist places bone graft material—either from your own body, a donor, or synthetic material—into the areas where bone loss has occurred. Over time, the graft material encourages new bone growth, helping to restore stability to the teeth.
• Benefits: Bone grafting helps to strengthen the bone structure around teeth, preventing tooth loss and allowing for the potential placement of dental implants in the future. Call us to learn more.

Guided Tissue Regeneration

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) is a procedure used to stimulate the growth of new bone and gum tissue. It is often performed in conjunction with flap surgery or bone grafting.

• Procedure: During GTR, a special membrane is placed between the bone and gum tissue. This membrane prevents the gum tissue from growing into the area where the bone should be, allowing the bone to regenerate. The membrane may be absorbable or require removal at a later date.
• Benefits: GTR promotes the regeneration of lost bone and gum tissue, improving the stability of the teeth and reducing pocket depth.

Soft Tissue Grafts (Gum Grafting)

Soft tissue grafts, also known as gum grafting, are used to treat receding gums, a common consequence of advanced periodontal disease. Receding gums can expose the roots of the teeth, leading to sensitivity, decay, and an increased risk of tooth loss.

• Procedure: During a gum graft, tissue is taken from another area of the mouth, typically the roof of the mouth, and grafted onto the areas where the gums have receded. The graft helps to cover the exposed roots and promotes the growth of new gum tissue.
• Benefits: Gum grafting improves the appearance of the gums, reduces tooth sensitivity, and protects the roots from further damage.

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening is a procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth’s surface. This surgery is often performed for aesthetic reasons or to prepare a tooth for a dental crown.

• Procedure: During crown lengthening, the periodontist reshapes the gum tissue and sometimes the underlying bone to expose more of the tooth. This creates a more balanced gum line and provides enough tooth structure for restorative procedures.
• Benefits: Crown lengthening improves the appearance of the smile by correcting a “gummy” appearance and ensures that dental restorations have enough support.

Laser-Assisted Periodontal Therapy

Laser-assisted periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option that uses laser technology to remove infected tissue and bacteria from the gum pockets.

• Procedure: During laser-assisted therapy, a specialized dental laser is used to target and remove diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. The laser also helps to sterilize the area and promote healing.
• Benefits: Laser-assisted therapy is less invasive than traditional surgery, with reduced discomfort and a faster recovery time.