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Surgical Gum Cleaning
If you have gum disease, your dentist can recommend one of several types of deep gum cleaning to correct the problem. Gum diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis are most commonly caused by an excessive bacteria build-up in your mouth. It creates excess plaque and makes your body less able to fight off any infections. Some medications and chronic illnesses can also make a person more susceptible to gum disease even if they follow a rigorous oral care regimen.
For patients diagnosed with gum disease severe enough to require surgery, your dentist may suggest one of these types of dental deep cleaning to treat the problem:
In a periodontal pocket reduction, the surgeon folds back the gums to remove any bacteria. The gum tissue is secured back against the teeth instead of letting it grow back on its own.
A gum regeneration procedure has the periodontist folding back the gums, removing disease-causing bacteria, and then inserting bone grafts or other types of tissue-stimulating proteins to stimulate gum tissue re-growth for a snug fit around the teeth.
Using crown lengthening, the periodontist removes overgrown gum tissue from around the teeth, making them appear longer. This type of gum reduction surgery is used primarily for cosmetic effects.
With a soft tissue gum graft, the periodontist takes tissue from elsewhere else in your mouth and attaches it to gum areas damaged from recession or disease. This procedure is often used for cosmetic purposes as well as to treat gum disease.
The surgeon will sew the gums back into place with stitches. They may be dissolvable or you'll need to have them removed in a follow-up visit 7 - 10 days later. A special surgical dressing called a periodontal pack may also be placed over the affected area.
After a deep teeth cleaning, there is some risk of bleeding and swelling. Most people experience mild to moderate post-surgical pain that can be managed using over-the-counter pain relievers. An ice pack can also help reduce mild swelling in the area, and any antibiotics prescribed by the periodontist should be used carefully.
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