Gums that cause pain or discomfort in any way can really put a damper on the daily activities you’d normally enjoy. Simply eating or drinking can become unbearable. But there’s good news! If you are suffering from any type of problems with your gums, Dr. Clagett can help.
Oftentimes the solution can be found with a non-surgical option, such as scaling and root planing. But other times, Kentucky patients may need to have gum surgery to find relief from their discomfort.
Gum surgery comes in several different forms, and which type of gum surgery you could need will be based on the type and severity of the problem you’re encountering. To learn more about the different types of gum surgery offered at Derby City Dental Specialists, keep reading.
Dr. Clagett Offers Several Types of Gum Surgery
As we mentioned, gum surgery is a broad term. Any surgical procedure where Dr. Clagett cuts directly into the gums falls into the “surgery” category. There is no one type of gum surgery that will correct every type of disease or infection. Because you’re unique and your needs are unique, Dr. Clagett is careful to develop a gum surgery treatment plan that will effectively meet your needs and provide amazing, life-changing results.
The types of gum surgery Dr. Clagett can perform are:
LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure)
Laser gum surgery is used to rid Kentucky patients of bacteria that have attached to the surface of the teeth and formed beneath the gums. This specialized laser has been specifically designed to only target the bacteria and diseased tissue; therefore, healthy tissues will be unaffected.
To maximize the benefits of LANAP gum surgery, Dr. Clagett will use ultrasonic instruments to further clean the teeth, using specialized techniques to encourage tooth-supporting bone to be restored in the treatment areas.
After gum surgery with LANAP, patients should be careful to allow their gums time to fully heal. You will be provided with specific aftercare instructions, which will advise you on the things you should (or shouldn’t) do during your recovery.
Traditional Gum Surgery
While laser gum surgery is preferred, Dr. Claggett may recommend traditional gum surgery for some patients whose condition is isolated to a specific area of the gums with no other gum-related concerns requiring treatment.
In order to perform traditional gum surgery, Dr. Clagett will create a small incision in the gums, elevate the gums away from the tooth and tooth roots, clear away the infection, and strengthen the teeth with replacement bone and growth factors.
Cosmetic Gum Surgeries
Sometimes Kentucky patients aren’t happy with the appearance of their smile. If you feel your smile is too “gummy” or you don’t like the way your gums fit around your teeth, Dr. Clagett can perform a crown gingivectomy or a gingivoplasty.
A gingivectomy is also known as a crown lengthening procedure. Dr. Clagett will expose more of your tooth or teeth by removing excess gum tissue.
A gingivoplasty is used to reshape the gums around the teeth, so they are more aesthetically pleasing. If you have gums that are misshapen, this procedure can help give you a smile you’re proud to show off.
Dr. Clagett Can Treat Your Periodontal Condition with Gum Surgery
If you’re suffering from gum pain, don’t wait any longer to call Derby City Dental Specialists in Kentucky. He is a board-certified periodontist who takes pride in providing his patients with treatment options that provide improved oral health and aesthetically-pleasing outcomes.
Learn more about the quality of treatment you will receive by reading testimonials of patients who have been successfully treated by Dr. Clagett and his friendly team.
