If calculus and plaque cannot be removed as a result of cleaning or curettage treatment, flap operation is performed to solve the problem. During this operation, the gingiva is opened and the tartar, inflammation and plaque that reach deep points are cleaned. At the same time, necessary regeneration (replacement of the lost bone) processes are performed according to the extent of bone destruction. Bone regeneration is supported with artificial bone grafts.
An opening is made in the gingiva with the incision made during the flap operation. This opening is closed with stitches taken after the operation. When the healing process is completed, you will have a healthy tooth and gum structure. You can preserve this structure for many years by showing the necessary care.
Why is Gum Surgery Performed?
The main reason for flap operation; It is the physician’s decision to perform such an operation as a result of the examination made according to the symptoms. Problems faced by the patient in this process; gingival bleeding, swelling, sensitivity can be listed as. In the first stage, the patient is treated with dental scaling or curettage. As a result of regular checks to be made as a result of these procedures, it is checked whether the treatment is working or not. If the tartar is not completely cleaned and the inflammation still exists, a flap operation is decided. In the mouth; As a result of the examination to be made with the help of dental imaging techniques, the patient is given an appointment for the gingival flap operation. There are some preparations that the patient should make before the operation.
Things to Do Before Flap Operation
First of all, you should prepare yourself mentally and physically for this operation. Such surgeries are performed under local anesthesia unless otherwise stated. You are expected to come to the operation with a full stomach.
How is Flap Operation Performed?
Diseased tissues are reached through the incision made during gingival flap surgery. After the diseased tissues are removed; After the tartar and plaque are cleaned and artificial grafts are placed, the incision is closed by suturing. How many hours the procedure will take depends on the width of the problem area. E.g; If a total of 6 teeth needs to be treated, the operation takes about an hour. If artificial grafts are used, the time may be extended.
Is Flap Operation Done to Everyone?
Flap surgery can be performed at any age, but the patient’s high level of anxiety during the operation may prevent this. In such cases, medications that will provide relief to the patient are given by the physician.
Is Flap Operation Difficult?
Those who have flap surgery do not feel any pain or pain as they are anesthetic during the surgery. Therefore, it cannot be said that flap surgery is a difficult procedure. If you do not interrupt your regular visits to the dentist, you can solve the problem with tartar cleaning without the need for flap operation and prevent the tartar from reaching deep points.
What Should Be Considered After Flap Operation?
The gingiva, which is opened in about a week after the flap surgery, is completely closed and the stitches are removed. After 3 weeks, your gums will be completely healed and free from inflammation. In the first week after the operation, hard foods and acidic beverages should not be consumed; no smoking. At the same time, you should not drink alcohol during this time. Mild bleeding, pain and swelling are considered normal after gingival surgery. All symptoms disappear within a week. If you do not pay attention to oral hygiene after the operation, you may cause the reoccurrence of the cleaned calculus and plaque. For this reason, you should brush your teeth twice a day, use an interface brush and clean between the teeth with dental floss.
Post-Flap Operation Control
After gingival surgery, your doctor will ask you to come for a check-up at regular intervals. In this way, the post-operative healing process is closely followed and this process is supported by extra medications or oral hygiene practices when necessary. You can feel the positive effects of the surgery for many years by using the medicines given by your doctor and by not disrupting your controls.
