Our Services / Periodontal Surgery

If you have gum disease and it doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, periodontal surgery can prevent the infection from spreading and improve your oral health. At his practice, experienced general and cosmetic dentist Daniel Wank, DDS, offers several types of periodontal surgery, including bone grafts, deep pocket cleanings, and crown lengthening. To make an appointment for periodontal surgery, call the office on the Upper East Side, New York City, New York, or book online today.

What is periodontal surgery?

Periodontal surgery refers to a group of procedures that treat chronic gum disease (periodontitis). It can be used to remove bacteria from beneath your gums, reshape the bones that support your teeth, or prevent a harmful infection from getting worse.

Dr. Wank has years of experience performing periodontal surgery. The process is quick, relatively painless, and provides long-lasting results.

Who can benefit from periodontal surgery?

You may benefit from periodontal surgery if you experience any of the following problems:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Deep pockets between your teeth and gums
• Loose teeth
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Receding gums

You may also be a candidate for periodontal surgery if you have bad breath that persists, even after practicing good oral hygiene.

What are the types of periodontal surgery?

Dr. Wank performs several types of periodontal surgery, including:

Hard tissue recontouring (osteoplasty)

During osteoplasty, Dr. Wank uses special tools to recontour the bones that support your teeth. The procedure improves the appearance of your smile and helps mask dental implants and other restorations.

Soft tissue recontouring (gingivoplasty)

Periodontitis often causes severe gum recession. Gingivoplasty helps straighten your gum line, making your smile more balanced and symmetrical.

Bone grafting

If you want dental implants, but don’t have enough jaw bone to support them, Dr. Wank may recommend a bone graft. During a bone graft procedure, Dr. Wank inserts a piece of synthetic bone into your jaw. Once placed, the material encourages the production of new bone tissue.

Deep pocket cleanings

Sometimes, traditional teeth cleaning isn’t enough to eliminate plaque and bacteria from beneath your gums. During a deep pocket cleaning, Dr. Wank uses special tools to eliminate buildup. This reduces inflammation, allowing your gums to reattach to your teeth.

Crown lengthening

If you need a crown, but there isn’t enough enamel to support the restoration, Dr. Wank may recommend crown lengthening. During crown lengthening, he uses special tools to remove excess gum tissue, exposing more of your natural tooth.

What is recovery like after periodontal surgery?

After periodontal surgery, it’s normal to experience mild swelling, bleeding, and increased sensitivity. Take it easy for the first day or two and follow Dr. Wank’s instructions carefully. Take any medication as prescribed, drink plenty of fluids, and don’t smoke.  

Depending on the type of surgery you have, Dr. Wank may prescribe a special antibacterial mouthwash. He may also ask you to eat only soft foods, like soup, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes while your mouth heals.

To make an appointment for periodontal surgery, call the office of Daniel Wank, DDS, in New York City, New York, or book online today.