How Is Flap Periodontal Surgery Done

Before the flap surgery begins, the periodontist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then the periodontist will separate the gums from teeth and then lift or fold them back in the form of a flap using a scalpel. This type of periodontal surgery gives the dental hygienist direct access to the roots and bones that supports the teeth. From between teeth and any holes in the bone, the inflamed tissue is removed. Then the periodontist will perform a procedure called scaling and root planing to have teeth and gums cleaned, or to scrape plaque and tartar away. Your periodontist may get rid of them with a procedure called osseous recontouring, which smoothens the edges of the bone using files or rotating burs if you have bone defects. Once these procedures have been completed, the gums will then be placed back against the teeth using stitches. The surgical site may also be covered with a periodontal pack or dressing.