Osseous Surgery (Periodontal Flap Surgery)
These treatment modalities allow the periodontist to gain access to the root of the tooth for removal of plaque, calculus and diseased tissue. They also allow visualization of the bone, so the doctor can evaluate the bony changes due to periodontal disease and treat it accordingly.
During flap surgery the gum is carefully retracted from the tooth, the area is debrided from infection and the gum is then sutured back in place. Flap surgery may sometimes be accompanied by osseous surgery, osseous (bone) reshaping or removal, in order to create a better physiologic bone/soft tissue morphology. This helps to facilitate better home care and increases the longevity of the teeth.