Conditions that Requires Flap Surgery

When advanced gum disease, such as periodontitis, develops, your teeth are at risk. At this rate, the ligaments and bone tissue surrounding the tooth are destroyed, and you may even begin to lose teeth. When non-surgical techniques such as scaling and root planing are insufficient to treat gum disease, flap surgery can restore your smile. To halt the progression of gum disease, the dentist in 77379 performs a flap procedure.

Flap surgery may be required when undergoing the following conditions:

• Advanced periodontitis: Severe gum disease characterized by deep pockets, gum inflammation, and bone loss.
• Gum recession: When the gum tissue recedes, exposing the tooth roots, leading to tooth sensitivity and an unattractive smile.
• Peri-implantitis: Inflammation and infection around dental implants can lead to implant failure if left untreated.
• Abscesses or fistulas: Pus-filled infections or abnormal openings in the gum tissue that require drainage and treatment.
• Osseous defects: Significant bone loss due to periodontal disease, requiring reshaping and regeneration of the damaged bone

What Is Flap Surgery?

Flap surgery, also known as periodontal flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery, is a dental procedure used to treat certain gum and underlying structure conditions. It is usually performed by a periodontist specializing in the gum and periodontal diseases.

To gain access to the underlying structures, including the tooth roots, bone, and surrounding tissues, a flap in the gum tissue is created. The flap is carefully lifted, exposing the affected area and allowing the dentist to perform necessary treatments.

Advanced periodontitis, a severe gum disease characterized by deep pockets, gum inflammation, and bone loss, is commonly treated with flap surgery. Flap surgery in Spring, TX aims to remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from the tooth roots while also reducing pocket depth. This procedure aids in eliminating infection, the reattachment of gum tissue, and the prevention of further damage to the supporting structures.

The dentist at The Smile Designer of Spring may also perform additional treatments such as bone reshaping, bone grafting, or applying regenerative materials during the procedure to promote healing and restoration of the affected areas. Flap surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Patients may experience discomfort and swelling following surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and proper oral hygiene practices.

It is important to note that flap surgery is typically considered after more conservative treatments, including scaling and root planing, have failed to produce satisfactory results. The specific flap surgery approach and techniques used may differ depending on the individual’s condition and the severity of the gum disease.

Cleaning and Treatment During Flap Surgery in Spring, TX

Cleaning and treatment are critical steps in flap surgery to address underlying dental conditions and promote healing. Here’s a rundown of the cleaning and treatment procedures used during flap surgery:

• Cleaning the Affected Area: The first step in flap surgery is to make a flap in the gum tissue that will allow access to the underlying structures. The dentist carefully lifts the flap to reveal the tooth roots, bone, and surrounding tissues. This allows for visibility and thorough cleaning of the affected area.
• Bacteria, Plaque, and Tartar Removal: After exposing the affected area, the dentist uses specialized tools to clean the tooth roots, removing bacteria, plaque, and tartar. This procedure aids in the removal of infection-causing agents while also promoting a clean and healthy environment for healing.
• Bone Reshaping and Grafting: The dentist may need to reshape or repair damaged bone structures during flap surgery. Smoothing irregular surfaces, removing diseased bone, or performing bone grafting procedures to help stimulate new bone growth can all be part of this.
• Depending on the extent of bone loss or damage, the dentist may use regenerative materials such as bone grafts, membranes, or proteins to aid in the regeneration and restoration of the bone and surrounding tissues. These materials encourage the formation of new bone and tissue, which strengthens the area and aids in gum reattachment.
• Suturing and Flap Placement: Following the cleaning and treatment, the dentist carefully repositions the flap over the treated area and secures it with sutures. The sutures help to keep the flap in place, aid in healing, and protect the treated area during recovery.

Following flap surgery, your dentist in Spring, TX, will give you post-operative instructions, which usually include instructions on proper oral hygiene, pain management, and dietary restrictions. Follow-up visits are scheduled regularly to monitor healing, remove sutures as needed, and assess treatment success.