Are You a Good Fit for Periodontal Flap Surgery?
Posted on August 22, 2025
For patients facing advanced gum disease or periodontitis, standard dental cleanings and non-surgical treatments may not be enough to treat deteriorating oral health and gum pockets developing as tartar buildup worsens. In these cases, periodontal flap surgery, a more targeted and thorough procedure, may be necessary. To find out if you're a good fit for treatments like periodontal flap surgery, book a consultation with your trusted periodontist in Whitby and Oshawa, Dr. Adam Ohayon. Using our years of experience and advanced technology, our experts will determine the best course of action for your smile.
Here are some of the signs that you might be a good fit for periodontal flap surgery. For more insight, book a consultation at The Perio Centre and talk to our trusted team of specialists and periodontists in Whitby.
What Is Periodontal Flap Surgery?
Periodontal flap surgery is a specialized procedure performed by a periodontist to treat moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis). When gum pockets deepen due to progressing gum disease, resulting in infection and inflammation, they become difficult to clean with traditional brushing, flossing, or even professional cleanings at your local dentist's office. This buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria can eventually lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss if not addressed with preventative treatments.
To mitigate tooth loss and oral health challenges, periodontists in Whitby, like Dr. Adam Ohayon at The Perio Centre, offer flap surgery where the gums are gently lifted back to expose the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone. This allows us to clean out deep pockets of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. In some cases, the bone may be reshaped or grafted before the gums are sutured back in place for secure teeth and healthier gums.
Ultimately, the goal of this periodontal treatment is to reduce pocket depth, control infection, and support gum and bone regeneration.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Periodontal Flap Surgery?
Not everyone with gum disease will need flap surgery, but certain signs may indicate that you're a good fit for the procedure. If these signs apply to you, book a consultation with Dr. Ohayon at The Perio Centre.
You Have Moderate to Severe Periodontitis
If your gum disease has progressed beyond the early stages (gingivitis) and you're experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, gum recession, persistent bad breath, or loose teeth, flap surgery may be required to stop further damage.
Non-Surgical Treatments Haven't Worked
Before considering surgery, periodontists typically recommend scaling and root planing or periodontal hygiene (deep cleaning). If this fails to significantly reduce inflammation or pocket depth, surgical intervention is usually the next step.
Deep Gum Pockets Are Present
Gum pockets deeper than 5 millimetres make bacteria and plaque removal incredibly challenging through routine cleaning. Periodontal lap surgery is often necessary to access and clean these areas thoroughly.
You're in Generally Good Health
Like all surgeries, this procedure carries some risks. Ideal candidates should be in good general health and free of conditions that could hinder healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders. If you smoke, your periodontist may recommend quitting or reducing tobacco use before surgery.
You Can Maintain Oral Care
Periodontal surgery alone won't cure gum disease permanently. Long-term success depends on a strong commitment to oral hygiene and regular follow-up care. To mitigate tooth loss, preserve oral health, and prolong the need for tooth replacements like dental implants, you must maintain both check-ins with your local dentist and follow-ups with your periodontist in Whitby.
Get Your Smile Back with a Trusted Periodontist at The Perio Centre
Periodontal flap surgery at The Perio Centre can revive your gum health, minimizing tenderness, pain, and inflammation in the gums. Investing in periodontal care and treatments earlier can help restore your natural gum lines, save natural teeth, and allow you to go about everyday life more comfortably.
If you're unsure whether you're a good candidate, it's essential to book a consultation with Dr. Ohayon at The Perio Centre, who can assess your condition and recommend a treatment plan that fits your needs.