Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a severe infection that affects approximately 50% to 80% of adults in the United States. Although it causes various symptoms such as bleeding and inflamed gums, persistent bad breath, and tooth loss, it is also a risk factor for stroke, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and even pre-term birth.
Periodontal microsurgery has begun to play an essential role in the evaluation and diagnosis of patients to protect the health of their teeth and possibly the health of their entire body. But precisely what is periodontal microsurgery? Continue reading as we launch a quick guide to periodontal microsurgery.
What is Periodontal Microsurgery?
Periodontal microsurgery is the refinement of basic surgical techniques that are minimally invasive to restore the appearance and function of teeth, gums, and bones damaged by severe gum disease. It is one of several advancements in the field of surgical periodontal therapy.
In 1992, the specialty of microsurgery was introduced to periodontics. It is made possible by the improved visual acuity gained through a surgical microscope, which results in less postoperative discomfort than most conventional periodontal surgery.
Benefits of Periodontal Microsurgery
Periodontal microsurgery is becoming more popular and has gained acceptance among periodontists because the end-result appearance is superior to that of conventional surgery. Here are some of the advantages of periodontal microsurgery:
- Periodontal microsurgery allows for less traumatic and less invasive surgery. What appears to be gross crushing and tearing in conventional periodontal surgery is gentle tissue manipulation.
- For periodontal microsurgery, high-level motor skills and accuracy are required to ensure that incisions are precisely mapped, flaps are elevated with little harm, and the wound is closed precisely and without tension. This helps the patient by lowering postoperative morbidity.
- The gentle handling of the gums and other tissue is critical to the success of periodontal esthetic surgeries. Less tissue is manipulated during the microsurgical procedure, which ensures that healing is not hampered.
- Periodontal microsurgery encourages fast repair through primary healing because of the precise wound closure. The recovery process is typically expedited within 48 hours of surgery, with less granulation or scar tissue formation.
- The acceptance by patients is usually greatly improved because of the minimal risk of scar formation, reduced postoperative pain, edema, healing time, discomfort from the stitches and reduced visibility.
Final Thoughts
Prior to the development of periodontal microsurgery, most dental treatments were performed with the naked eye or macroscopically. However, the procedure has improved, and the treatment is now conducted under a microscope.
Treatment outcomes have significantly improved due to the evaluation of early wound healing, minimally invasive surgical techniques, and other advantages discussed thus far in this article. As a result, many patients are not afraid to undergo treatments that allow them to enjoy the comfort and confidence required to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy good health in general.
For an appointment, contact Perio health, one of Houston’s most experienced oral health and wellness specialists.