Periodontal Surgery
Periodontal Surgery: Restoring Health and Supporting Tooth Replacement
If you are an adult or senior considering tooth replacement, periodontal surgery may be the key to lasting results. This specialized procedure strengthens gum and bone support, creating a foundation for dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
At Payam Cohen D.D.S, P.C. in Forest Hills, Queens, patients receive comprehensive guidance from diagnosis to recovery. Don’t wait until gum disease causes greater losses—contact us today to discuss your options and start building a healthier smile.
Understanding Periodontal Surgery and Its Role in Tooth Replacement
Periodontal surgery treats advanced gum disease when regular care isn’t enough. Gum disease can quietly worsen, leading to bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. In surgery, the dentist folds back the gums to clean out bacteria and hardened plaque. Damaged tissue is removed, roots are smoothed, and bone may be repaired or grafted. These steps shrink pocket depths, strengthen support, and slow or stop the disease.
Surgery also prepares the mouth for tooth replacement. Implants, bridges, and dentures need healthy gums and bone to last. Without surgery, replacements may fail or require extra procedures. Patients who choose surgery first often enjoy better comfort, stronger results, and a natural look. At Forest Hills Dentistry, we not only treat current problems but also create a solid foundation for long-term success.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
Not all patients with gum disease need surgery. Scaling and root planing often control the early stages of periodontal disease. However, when deep pockets remain or bone loss worsens, advanced treatment becomes unavoidable.
You may be a candidate if you notice persistent swelling, bleeding gums, or loose teeth. Chronic bad breath can also signal an advanced infection. If X-rays show bone loss, surgery may restore support and preserve natural teeth.
Patients planning implants, bridges, or dentures often benefit from periodontal surgery first. By reducing infection and reshaping tissue, the procedure ensures that replacement teeth last longer. Without healthy gums, restorative dentistry becomes less predictable.
Preparing for Surgery
Preparation begins with a complete evaluation. The dentist reviews your medical history, medications, and overall health. Blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking habits can influence healing and will be discussed.
Diagnostic imaging, pocket measurements, and sometimes 3D scans provide a complete picture of your gum and bone condition. A personalized treatment plan is then created, detailing which areas require intervention and the specific techniques that will be used.
Before surgery, patients often receive instructions to adjust medications, avoid smoking, and maintain excellent oral hygiene. Following these directions improves healing and reduces the risk of complications.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During Surgery
Periodontal surgery is performed in a carefully structured sequence, with each step designed to restore gum health and strengthen tooth support. From the moment anesthesia takes effect until the final sutures are placed, the process prioritizes comfort, precision, and long-term stability.
- Anesthesia and Comfort: Local anesthesia numbs the treatment area completely. Some patients may also receive sedation for added relaxation.
- Accessing the Gum Tissue: Small incisions allow the dentist to fold back the gums, exposing roots and bone gently.
- Cleaning and Debridement: Plaque, tartar, and infected tissue are removed. Root surfaces are smoothed to discourage bacterial growth.
- Bone and Tissue Regeneration: If bone losses exist, grafts or regenerative membranes may be placed to rebuild support. Soft tissue grafts may also be used to cover exposed roots.
- Repositioning and Sutures: The gum tissue is repositioned for a snug fit around teeth and secured with sutures. A protective dressing may be applied.
This precise process creates a healthier environment that supports both natural teeth and future replacements.
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgical procedure, periodontal surgery carries some risks. These may include infection, swelling, or sensitivity. However, with proper preparation and aftercare, complications remain rare.
Patients with health conditions such as diabetes or immune disorders may require additional planning and support. Smoking can significantly delay healing and increase the risk of recurrence. Open communication with your dentist ensures a safe and practical experience.
Recovery: What to Expect
Healing usually takes about one to two weeks, but bigger procedures can take longer. It’s normal to have some swelling, bleeding, or soreness in the beginning, so patients are given simple instructions to follow at home. Eating soft foods like oatmeal, yogurt, or mashed vegetables helps protect the gums, while avoiding crunchy or spicy foods prevents irritation. Rinsing gently with a special antimicrobial solution also helps keep bacteria under control.
Physical rest also matters. Strenuous exercise can increase bleeding and should be avoided initially. Brushing should be gentle, steering clear of the surgical site until directed otherwise.
Follow-up visits allow the dentist to remove sutures, monitor healing, and provide additional care instructions. Patients who follow recommendations often experience smooth recovery and predictable results.
Long-Term Outcomes and Maintaining Results
Periodontal surgery can bring long-lasting benefits when followed by good care. It lowers pocket depths, improves gum shape, and restores bone and tissue support, giving patients a healthier smile and a stronger base for implants, bridges, or dentures. It can also help prevent tooth loss and reduce the risks associated with conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
To keep these results, daily habits are key. Regular checkups, cleanings, and gentle brushing and flossing protect healing gums. Eating less sugar, staying hydrated, and choosing nutritious foods also help. Quitting smoking greatly improves gum health and reduces the chance of disease returning. With steady care, the benefits of surgery can last for decades.
Expert Periodontal Care in Forest Hills
Choosing the right provider is key to long-term gum health. At Payam Cohen D.D.S., P.C., patients receive precise treatment backed by advanced technology and compassionate guidance. From diagnosis through recovery, every step is centered on comfort, clarity, and lasting results.
Periodontal surgery not only halts disease but also builds a strong foundation for implants, bridges, or dentures—giving adults and seniors renewed confidence in their oral health. Don’t wait for gum disease to progress—call today to schedule your consultation and begin creating a healthier, more stable smile.