Surgery for Periodontal Disease – What to Know

Surgery for Periodontal Disease – What to Know
  1. Gingivectomy
  2. Gingivoplasty
  3. Apicoectomy

If you are one of the millions of Americans suffering from periodontal disease, you may consider surgery a treatment option. Periodontal surgery can be used to treat a variety of problems, including gum recession, tooth loss, and infection. This blog will discuss the types of periodontal surgery and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Gingivectomy


It is a surgical procedure to remove infected or inflamed gum tissue. This surgery is often used to treat periodontitis, a severe gum disease. The gingivectomy procedure involves making small incisions in the gums and then removing the damaged tissue. The healthy tissue is then sutured back into place. This surgery is usually done in a hospital setting and takes about one to two hours to complete. The recovery period is short, and most people can return to normal activities within a few days.

Gingivoplasty


It is called gingival hyperplasia, when the gum tissue around your teeth is swollen or has excess growth. Gingivoplasty is periodontal surgery that involves trimming away the excess gum tissue to even out the gum line. It can be performed for cosmetic reasons, but it can also help reduce inflammation and irritation in the gums. Your periodontist may recommend gingivoplasty if you have excess gum tissue that is causing problems with your teeth or if you are not happy with the appearance of your smile.

Apicoectomy


Apicoectomy is a surgical process performed to remove the end of the tooth’s root. It is done when there is inflammation or infection at the base of the root (known as the periapical area). An expert dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to reach the root. Once the root is removed, the area will be cleaned and sealed.

If you have been detected with periodontal disease, our dentist or periodontist may recommend surgery to restore the teeth and gums healthily. Surgery for periodontal disease is a last resort, but it may be the best way to save your teeth.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. Melody Schiffer

Dr. Melody Schiffer was born and raised in Westchester, NY, and graduated from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor before continuing her education at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She completed her periodontics and implant dentistry residency at New York University College of Dentistry and is a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Dr. Schiffer is an active member of several dental associations and frequently lectures nationwide. She lives in Suwanee with her husband and two daughters and enjoys community services, traveling, exercising, following Michigan football, and spending time with her family.

Dr. Melody Schiffer

Read More
Dr. Nisha Kancherla

Dr. Nisha Kancherla was born and raised in Glen Dale, WV. She earned her dental degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed her residency in periodontics at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry. Dr. Kancherla also earned a master’s degree in oral science for her research in genetics and stem cell research, which she published in Molecular Cancer Research. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and has been in practice for eight years.

Dr. Nisha Kancherla

Read More

Judgment-Free, High-Quality Dentistry is Possible

Experience it for yourself!

Schedule Consultation
Contact Us