Flap Surgery

What is Flap surgery?

Flap surgery is a procedure in which the gums are separated from the teeth and folded back temporarily to allow a dentist to reach the root of the tooth and the bone.

When it is needed?

Flap surgery is done in cases of periodontal disease which is inflammation of gums and surrounding structures that holds the teeth.

Why is it done?

Infection of gums releases bacterial toxins that affect the inner layer of gum and surrounding structures of the teeth. Long standing infection and inflammation can erode the bone that surrounds the teeth resulting in gum pockets and tooth mobility.

How is it done?

The procedure is done under local anesthesia. Gums are separated from the teeth which gives access to tooth root and bone defect surrounding the tooth. The inflamed layer of gum is removed and root portion of teeth is scraped off of any deposits/tartar. Surrounding bone is re-contoured eliminating any bone defect. Additionally, laser can also be used to clean the infected gums. After thorough irrigation, the gums are sutured back.