Regenerative Gum Surgery
If you are suffering from gum disease and you’ve tried everything to stabilize or reverse the situation and it doesn’t seem to be helping, you may be a candidate for regenerative gum surgery. Until very recently, there was nothing that dentists could do to restore lost gum tissue or bone. Now, with the help of advancing science, they can.
What is Regenerative Gum Surgery?
Instead of just grafting other tissue and patching it over the missing gum, the dentist can now grow new gum! He can do this by folding the gum back and removing the bacteria from underneath (which is what is causing the recession). He then adds a special tissue stimulating protein that kick starts your body into healing itself and growing new gum tissue.
If you have periodontal disease (where the jaw bone is crumbling), he can add bone graft to the area and this may generate new bone. The procedure is done under a local anaesthetic.
How will I feel Afterwards?
You should rest for 24 hours after the procedure.
Your mouth will be numb for several hours after surgery so you shouldn’t have any hot drinks or food you have to chew during this time, in case you accidently damage your mouth. You should avoid chewing foods in the area you have been operated on for a few days after your surgery. Having soft and liquid foods may be better during this time.
After the anaesthetic has worn off, your mouth will feel sore and your gums may be swollen. You will be given medication to relieve the discomfort and possibly antibiotics to prevent infection. Most patients only experience mild discomfort.
After 5 to 10 days you will return to the dentist for a follow-up appointment so he can see how your mouth is healing.
How Do I Pay for My Surgery?
Dental loans are available to pay for your surgery. You should be able to discuss your finances with your dentist and they will help you find a plan that is affordable for you. You could also approach your medical insurance provider, although it is pot luck as to whether they will fund it because some insurance companies consider gum surgery to be cosmetic even when it is done for medical reasons.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment1 Comments
Periodontal disease is not treated by antibiotics, mouthrinses, or any other drugs. It is treated by Periodontists who diagnose and treat periodontal disease. A periodontist diagnoses periodontal disease first, then has a deep cleaning done. He re-evaluates the pockets and then decides if periodontal surgery is needed. Relying on non specialists to treat you risks the chances of having to wear dentures or other devices that replace your teeth when they are lost to periodontal disease after years of controlled neglect by your uninformed dentist and his hygienist. See www.perio.org for more information and the nearest Periodontist.
December 21, 2011 - 7:48pmThis Comment