07/11/2025
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Periodontal flap surgery
Procedure to treat advanced gum disease (periodontitis) by lifting gum tissue to clean deep tartar deposits and reshape bone. During the surgery, a dentist makes an incision to lift the gum tissue, which provides access to the root and underlying bone to allow for deep cleaning, root planing, and bone reshaping if necessary. Once the roots are cleaned and the bone is treated, the gum tissue is put back in place and sutured.
Key indications for flap surgery
Persistent deep pockets: When non-surgical treatment like scaling and root planing fails to reduce deep pockets (over 5mm) to a healthy level, surgery is indicated for better access and cleaning.
Intrabony defects and other osseous defects: Irregularities in the bone contour, such as deep craters or intrabony defects, require surgical intervention to reshape the bone and attempt regeneration.
Furcation involvement: Surgical access is necessary to thoroughly clean the furcation areas of multi-rooted teeth, especially in cases of grade 2 or 3 involvement.
Gingival overgrowth: Excessive gum tissue can be a reason for surgery, particularly if it interferes with aesthetics or oral hygiene.
Regenerative procedures: Flap surgery is required to provide access for placing bone grafts, membranes, and other materials to regenerate lost periodontal tissues.
Aesthetic concerns: In cases where aesthetics is a major concern, flap surgery can be used to reshape the gums and improve appearance.
Specific anatomical challenges: Surgery is often the only way to treat pockets in hard-to-reach areas like the distal side of the last molars.
