24531 Trabuco Rd., Suite H, Lake Forest, CA 92630 If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease, our dentist might recommend a gingivectomy or open flap debridement to improve your oral health. These procedures are essential for managing gum disease and ensuring the longevity of your teeth and gums.
A gingivectomy involves the careful removal of diseased gum tissue. This procedure is often necessary when the gums have receded due to severe periodontal disease, creating deep pockets where bacteria thrive. During the procedure, our dentist will administer local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Then, the diseased gum tissue is trimmed away, reducing the pocket depth and allowing for easier cleaning and maintenance of your teeth. This helps prevent further progression of gum disease and promotes healthier gum reattachment.
Open flap debridement is another vital periodontal treatment. It is typically recommended when the gum disease has progressed to a point where nonsurgical treatments are insufficient. In this procedure, the gums are gently lifted away from the teeth to expose the root surfaces and the bone. This allows our dentist to thoroughly clean the roots, removing plaque, tartar and bacteria. The exposed area is then treated with antimicrobial agents to eliminate any remaining harmful microorganisms. After the cleaning, the gums are repositioned and sutured back in place, facilitating proper healing and reducing pocket depths.
Post-procedure care is crucial for both gingivectomy and open flap debridement. You might experience some discomfort and sensitivity in the treated areas. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help manage these symptoms and promote healing. This typically includes using prescribed mouth rinses, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and possibly taking antibiotics to prevent infection.
Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the treatments are effective. You should see a significant improvement in the health of your gums and a reduction in pocket depths over the following weeks.
To schedule an appointment with our dentist or learn more about gingivectomy or open flap debridement, reach out to our team today. We are here to help you achieve optimal oral health and maintain a beautiful smile.