🪻 Gum Surgery (Periodontal Surgery)
Gum surgery includes a set of specialized dental procedures used to treat gum diseases, injuries, and the tooth‑supporting tissues.
These surgeries are divided into therapeutic (to restore gum health) and cosmetic (to enhance smile appearance).
The choice of surgery depends on the condition of the gums, bone, and type of problem.
🔹 Types of Gum Surgery and Their Applications
🔩 Gum Flap Surgery
The gum is carefully lifted from the teeth to remove bacteria, plaque, and deep tartar buildup.
After cleaning and disinfection, it is sutured back in place.
Application: Treats deep gum pockets and chronic infections.
🧼 Gum Curettage
Involves the removal of infected or inflamed gum tissue to reduce infection and promote healthy tissue.
Often performed before other surgical procedures.
🌿 Gum Graft
Used to cover tooth roots exposed by gum recession.
Healthy gum tissue is taken from another mouth area and grafted where needed.
Application: Stops further gum loss and improves aesthetics.
👑 Crown Lengthening
Removes excess gum and minor bone tissue to expose more of the tooth structure.
Application: Prepares the tooth for a crown or cosmetic smile adjustment.
🧠 Reconstructive Surgery (Bone & Gum Grafts)
Rebuilds supportive bone and gum tissues lost due to severe periodontal disease or trauma.
💡 Laser Gum Surgery
Modern, minimally invasive approach using dental lasers to reshape gum tissue and remove infection with minimal bleeding and faster healing.
⚙️ General Steps of Gum Surgery
🔍 Examination and diagnosis using X‑rays and clinical evaluation
💉 Local anesthesia of the surgical site
✂️ Small incision or laser access to the infected or damaged area
🧴 Removal of plaque, tartar, and infected tissues
🦴 Bone or soft tissue grafting if needed
🪡 Suturing and instructions for post‑operative care
🪷 Gum surgery is critical for treating advanced periodontal disease, healing damaged tissues, and enhancing the aesthetics of your smile — always performed under the guidance of a periodontist (gum specialist).
⏰ Duration and Recovery
⏱️ Surgery time: 1–2 hours (under local anesthesia)
🌸 Gum lift or contouring: Completed in one session; healing in a few days to a few weeks
🌿 Gum graft procedures: Recovery 1–2 weeks with gentle care and soft diet
🧵 Suture removal: Usually within 7–10 days after surgery
💊 Pain & swelling: Decrease within a few days with prescribed medication
💚 Follow‑Up Care After Gum Surgery
🩹 Follow dentist instructions carefully for medication and cleaning.
🪥 Brush gently around non‑surgical areas only; clean the surgical site as advised.
🧴 Rinse twice daily with a prescribed or saltwater mouthwash to keep the area clean.
🚫 Do not smoke or use tobacco—it delays healing.
🍲 Follow a soft‑food diet (soups, yogurt, mashed foods) for 5–7 days.
❄️ Apply cold compresses during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
💉 Avoid strenuous activity for at least 48 hours post‑surgery.
🧵 Return for suture removal and follow‑up checks after 7–10 days.
😬 Expect mild sensitivity or swelling—report persistent bleeding or severe pain immediately.
🩺 Schedule regular check‑ups every 3–6 months to maintain gum health.