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Periodontal Disease: If You Need SurgeryLa enfermedad periodontal: Si necesita tratamiento quirºrgico

Periodontal Disease: If You Need Surgery

If you have periodontal disease, you may need surgery to save one or more teeth. Surgery can help reduce the size of pockets that form between tooth and gum. It can also help regenerate bone and other tissue, or adjust the gumline. In addition, surgery can be used to reach tartar that can't be removed with other techniques.

Your Surgical Experience

Periodontal surgery takes place in the dentist's office. You will go home soon after it is completed. To control pain you'll be given local anesthesia. You may also have a sedative (medication to help you relax). Be sure to arrange in advance for a ride home.

After Surgery

Your instructions right after surgery may include:

Resting for a day or two
Taking medication to control pain or prevent infection
Using ice or medication to control swelling
Not smoking
Special instructions for cleaning teeth
Caring for the surgical area or dressing

You'll have a follow-up visit in 1-3 weeks to check how you're healing. This is when stitches and any dressing (protective covering) are removed.

Risks and Complications

These vary depending on the surgery. In general, risks and complications of periodontal surgery may include any of the following:

Pain or discomfort
Increased tooth mobility or sensitivity (often temporary)
Swelling and bruising of the cheek
Numbness or tingling, due to temporary or permanent damage to nearby nerves
Exposure of more crown or root

When to Call Your Dentist

Call your dentist after surgery if any of the following occurs:

You have excessive bleeding or swelling.
The stitches come undone earlier than your surgeon has told you to expect.
Part or all of the dressing comes off or is uncomfortable.
You have persistent pain.
You have a fever over 100.4ºF.
You have questions about your condition or treatment.

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The solution to all your smile care needs is here at Grout Family Dentistry. Call us at 303-730-1222 or fill out our online Request an Appointment form to arrange your consultation. We offer our services to residents of Arapahoe County, Denver County, Douglas County and nearby locatioons, including Englewood, Highlands Ranch, Littleton, Southglenn and Denver, CO.

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