Gingival flap surgery is the surgical procedure done to restore the gums and bone in case of periodontal diseases which are non-responsive to non-surgical treatment.
Surgical Procedure
After the administration of the local anesthesia, the soft tissue is incised with surgical knives on both sides of the tooth or teeth to be treated. The incisions are made vertically in such a way that the base of the flap is broader. The incised soft tissue flap is reflected away from the tooth crown to expose the underlying root and bone. The periodontal problem for which the surgery is being performed is then treated. This may involve beveling a rough root or bone spike. Any diseased or necrosed tissue is scooped out and removed. The reflected flap is then sutured back to its original position.
Follow Up after the Gingival Flap Surgery
The patient must visit the Periodontist for follow up. Sutures placed on the surgical site are removed after one week. The Periodontist may need to vary the dose of Antibiotics and pain killers according to the condition of the patient. The patient must check with the dentist if he or she is sufficiently maintaining proper oral hygiene to prevent any infection. Patients must use a mouthwash containing Chlorhexidine to minimize the chances of infection around the wound site. The patient is advised to brush with an extra soft periodontal surgical tooth brush for about 3 to 4 weeks or till the wound is completely healed. The patient must visit the Periodontist if:
- the surgery area bleeds profusely even after 24 hours of the surgery
- the pain persists despite taking prescribed painkillers
- any discharge occurs from the surgical area, or there is any swelling or infection of the wound
Risk Factors associated with Gingival Flap Surgery
Besides bleeding, swelling and pus discharge from the surgical area, root cavities and gingival recession are the common complications after a Gingival Flap surgery