If you have been diagnosed with moderate to severe gum disease, you may benefit from gum surgery to restore your oral health. Advanced periodontal issues can damage not only your gum tissue but also your teeth and jawbone. Without treatment, the infection may lead to receding gums, loose teeth or even tooth loss. Gum surgery in Chandler, Arizona, allows our dentists to access and clean deeper areas, remove diseased tissue and repair damage that cannot be addressed through nonsurgical treatment alone.
Types of Gum Surgery
Your treatment plan will depend on the severity of your condition and the specific symptoms you are experiencing. There are several types of gum surgery that may be recommended to address different concerns:
- Gingival flap surgery (pocket reduction): This procedure involves lifting the gum tissue to expose the roots of the teeth and thoroughly clean out plaque and bacteria that have accumulated deep beneath the surface. Once the area is cleaned, the gums are repositioned and sutured in place to reduce pocket depth and promote healing.
- Gingivectomy: If you have overgrown gum tissue, a gingivectomy may be recommended to remove the excess tissue and make it easier to keep your teeth clean. This procedure can be especially helpful if your gum overgrowth is caused by certain medications or chronic inflammation.
- Gingivoplasty: This cosmetic gum procedure reshapes healthy gum tissue to improve the appearance of your smile. It can also support better oral hygiene by creating a more natural and accessible gum line. Gingivoplasty may be performed on its own or in combination with other periodontal treatments.
- Crown lengthening: This type of gum surgery involves reshaping the gums and underlying bone to expose more of a tooth’s surface. It may be performed for functional reasons — such as preparing a tooth for a dental crown — or for cosmetic purposes to reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile.
- Gum grafting: If your gums have receded, a gum graft can help cover exposed roots and protect the teeth from sensitivity or decay. This procedure uses tissue from another area of your mouth or a donor source to rebuild the gum line.
Aftercare & Recovery
Following gum surgery, you will receive detailed post-operative instructions to support healing and minimize discomfort. You may be advised to follow a soft-food diet for a few days and to avoid brushing the surgical site until it has healed. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending follow-up visits is essential to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of further complications.
To learn more about gum surgery in Chandler, AZ, and how it can improve your oral health, we invite you to contact Artistic Dentistry at 480-878-5570 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Luis Keys, Dr. Karina Keys, Dr. Claudio Cosio or Dr. Lakin Radeka. Our experienced dental team is here to guide you through every step of your treatment.