While no one wants to go through gingival gum surgery, it happens frequently enough that it pays to understand the process and how a surgical intervention can improve your general health and smile. There are five things patients need to understand about gum surgery.
When is Gum Surgery Necessary?
In some cases, gum-related issues can be resolved without surgery, as such, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a specialized oral surgeon to determine how to address a specific dental health issue. After an examination, the surgeon will be better able to define the existing problems and determine which corrective actions are most applicable.
Gum disease, commonly known as periodontal disease, is a major oral health issue, and more times than not, surgery is necessary to save teeth, gums, and facial jaw bone. Other times, gum surgery can be for cosmetic purposes, which can also help improve oral functioning and provide a healthy smile.
Who Should You Seek for Professional Help?
Minor dental issues can generally be handled by a dentist; however, most general dentists don’t have the expertise to deal with more severe gum issues and gum disease where surgery may be required. If a significant problem is noted by your dentist, he or she will likely refer you to an oral surgeon, or more specifically, an oral maxillofacial surgeon, for specialized treatment and advanced care options.
The Houston oral surgeons of OMSH are highly trained dental and medical practitioners who are fully equipped and trained to address any issues pertaining to tooth loss, gums, facial bone trauma, and the installation of various dental implant options.
What Are the Most Common Types of Procedures?
Dental surgeons and experienced practitioners will suggest options to deal with the specific types of issues you’re experiencing. Gum disease will frequently result in tissue that’s discolored or asymmetrical, painful, and at elevated risk of tooth loss. In some cases, gum issues can be defined as being appearance-related rather than medically related; therefore, a thorough exam and consultation is necessary to determine which procedure is right for each patient.
Depending on the circumstances, tissue may be grafted to replace unsightly, diseased gum tissue. The gum line may also be altered to improve both the appearance and function of the gums. The surgeon will discuss the available options to ensure you’re well aware of the pros and cons of any procedure.
What Can You Expect During the Recovery Process?
Since surgical procedures commonly include incisions, stitches may be necessary to close the incision and allow proper healing to begin. In some cases, a dressing may be needed, which will mean taking special care to keep the area as clean as possible. The oral surgeon will suggest ways to prevent the occurrence of problems related to the healing process.
Over-the-counter pain medications may be sufficient after a procedure, but the surgeon will provide a prescription if the need for something stronger is indicated. Discuss how and when any medications should be used to avoid complications. Typical healing process can take about 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of gum surgery performed. Your oral surgeon will also provide post-op instructions and care options to help the healing process.
How to Avoid Future Problems?
Patients are encouraged to be proactive with their dental care strategies to minimize the need for additional procedures in the future. That will typically include closely monitoring any developing conditions to keep them from progressing.
While normal dental care visits should be continued, the surgeon may suggest other care options, along with maintaining a healthy oral hygiene regimen, to ensure that no future issues occur or develop.
Never Put Off Getting Help
The most important part of maintaining dental health is to get help at the first sign of any noticeable issue. Most patients don’t know that their gum issues may lead to needing gingival gum surgery, until they visit a dental practitioner for an exam. This is why routine visits are crucial to overall oral health.
For Houstonians that have questions about gum surgery or need to schedule an appointment, it’s best to connect with the highly-trained surgeons of OMSH. At OMSH, we specialize in providing technologically advanced and long-lasting dental implants, gum surgery, and much more. Call us at tel:832-509-4505 to learn more.
