Gum surgery...Toothsmith....anyone?

[floyd]

Well after more than a year of root planing I went for my review and although there is a huge improvement and I don't have pockets in alot of places there are 2 teeth that aren't responding so I have to have gum flap surgery in that area.
My question is, how long does it take for the gum to heal as I am having it done in 2 stages.
Any tips to make sure I keep it infection free while it heals (other than religious brushing and flossing)

Cheers

[Toothsmith]

Hi Floyd,

This is pretty advanced stuff, and I would be guided by the specialist doing it.

The good brushing & flossing goes without saying though.

[floyd]

Thanks toothsmith, I am just worried and more than a little disappointed.
I have always looked after my teeth, flossed and brushed twice a day, kept up regular dentist and hygenist visits and done everything to the letter advised by my dental practitioners.

But unfortunately I appear to be fighting a losing battle because my genetics mean I am predisposed to mixed connective tissue disease.

It breaks my heart when I see people at the dentists swigging coke and eating sweets before going in for their appointments but they never have any problems.

I appear to be allergic to myself and every part of me wants to self destruct :o

[Toothsmith]

Genetics really can be a bu££er!

It is true that for 10% of chronic gum patients they will loose teeth nomatter what.

The fact you've only got a couple of dodgy ones now is testamant to your self-care, and the work of your dentist and hygienist.

Don't give up - you're doing well.

[floyd]

:T Thanks Toothsmith

[floyd]

Just a quick report back so that anyone else having it will know what to expect.

Had the first session of gum flap procedure done today under local anasthetic. I hate to tempt fate but it was an absolute doddle! Didn't feel a thing and I have absolutely no pain 3 hours after my pain medication has worn off.
The dressing looks a bit odd (like chewing gum wrapped around my teeth) but the wound isn't hurting at all considering how much cutting and stitching was done.
The whole procedure took an hour (that was for 2 teeth on both sides of the tooth), next week I have another session on 3 teeth then thats it.
Just hope I can keep the area clean as I am not allowed to brush that area, only wash it with Corsadyl.

So for anyone else in the unfortunate position of having it done, try not to worry about it, in my case there was little discomfort, no bruising, no bleeding and none of the swelling you tend to get with extractions :)

[Toothsmith]

I think the dressing is called Coe pak. That's the stuff we used when I was a student, and it sounds the same. It's an absolute bu££er to get into the right place, as it's very much like packing chewing gum!!!

Might be a bit more sore after 24h or so, but it's not very invasive surgery, and the mouth heals quickly and well, so I don't think it will be too bad at all.

Corsodyl will do the job fine for the few days you can't get a brush to it, but it will probably stain your unbrushed teeth really brown. Don't worry though, as this can be easily polished off when it's all over.