What is Flap Surgery for Teeth?

Flap surgery, also called periodontal flap surgery or gum flap surgery, is a minor surgical procedure used to treat advanced gum disease (periodontitis).

In this treatment:

• The gums are gently lifted.

• Deep tartar and bacteria are removed.

• The area is cleaned thoroughly.

• The gums are placed back properly.

This helps reduce infection and allows the gums to heal tightly around the teeth.

Types of Flap Surgery for Teeth

Depending on the condition, different types of periodontal flap procedures may be used:

1. Open Flap Debridement

• Most common type

• Removes deep plaque and tartar

• Reduces gum pocket depth

2. Osseous Surgery (Bone Surgery)

• Smoothens damaged bone

• Helps prevent bacteria accumulation

3. Regenerative Flap Surgery

• Bone graft or membrane may be placed

• Encourages bone and tissue regrowth

4. Laser-Assisted Flap Surgery

• Uses dental laser

• Less bleeding and faster healing

Your dentist will recommend the best option based on your gum condition.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Flap Surgery

Here is how the procedure is done:

Step 1: Examination and Diagnosis

• Gum measurement using periodontal probe

• Dental X-rays

• Treatment planning

Step 2: Local Anesthesia

• Area is numbed

• You stay comfortable and pain-free

Step 3: Gum Incision

• Small incision made in gums

• Gums gently lifted

Step 4: Deep Cleaning

• Removal of tartar and infected tissue

• Root surfaces cleaned and smoothed

Step 5: Bone Treatment (If Needed)

• Bone reshaping or bone graft placed

Step 6: Closing the Gums

• Gums repositioned

• Stitches placed

Step 7: Healing Phase

• Follow-up visits scheduled

• Stitches removed in 7–10 days

Recovery After Gum Flap Surgery

Healing usually takes:

• Initial healing: 1–2 weeks

• Complete healing: 4–6 weeks

Post-Surgery Care Tips:

• Avoid hard or spicy foods

• Eat soft diet

• Maintain oral hygiene carefully

• Use prescribed mouthwash

• Avoid smoking

• Attend follow-up appointments

Proper care ensures faster healing.

Who is an Ideal Candidate?

You may be a good candidate if:

• You have advanced gum disease

• Scaling and root planing did not help

• You have deep gum pockets

• You want to save loose teeth

• You have bone loss around teeth

Patients with controlled diabetes or medical conditions can also undergo surgery after proper evaluation.

Benefits of Flap Surgery for Teeth

Flap surgery offers several long-term benefits:

• Removes deep infection

• Reduces gum pocket depth

• Prevents tooth loss

• Improves gum attachment

• Stops bleeding gums

• Reduces bad breath

• Protects jaw bone

• Improves overall oral health

It is a highly effective treatment for severe periodontal disease.

Possible Side Effects or Risks

Flap surgery is safe when performed by an experienced periodontist. However, temporary side effects may include:

• Swelling

• Mild pain

• Tooth sensitivity

• Minor bleeding

• Gum recession

Serious complications are rare.

Following post-operative instructions reduces risk significantly.

Why Choose Esthetica Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery Hospital in Vadodara?

• Experienced periodontist

• Advanced surgical techniques

• Modern dental equipment

• Sterile environment

• Personalized treatment planning

• Comfortable patient care

Patient safety and long-term results are always the priority.

FAQs

Conclusion

If you are suffering from bleeding gums, loose teeth, or deep gum infection, do not delay treatment. Early care prevents serious complications.

Visit Esthetica Dental and Maxillofacial Surgery Hospital in Vadodara for expert evaluation and advanced flap surgery for teeth.

Healthy gums mean a healthy smile. Take the first step today.