Gingivectomy
A gingivectomy involves the surgical removal of gum tissue to treat periodontal disease or improve the appearance of the smile. This procedure addresses situations where the gums have become overgrown, creating pockets that harbor bacteria and lead to infection. Dr. Mark Gutt, one of the best dentists in Miami, performs gingivectomies when conservative treatments have failed or when excessive gum tissue covers too much of the tooth surface.
Using local anesthesia, the procedure removes diseased or excess tissue with surgical instruments or laser technology, offering reduced bleeding and faster healing. The benefits extend beyond treating active disease, as gingivectomies can also address a “gummy smile” to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Ridge Augmentation
Ridge augmentation rebuilds the natural contour of the jawbone following tooth loss or extraction, addressing bone deterioration that creates indentations in the gum line. This procedure serves as an important preparatory step for dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Dr. Mark Gutt places bone grafting material into areas of bone loss, using natural bone, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. The healing process takes several months as the grafted material integrates with existing bone and stimulates new growth. Success rates are high, with patients achieving sufficient bone volume for restorative procedures while preventing the sunken facial appearance that often accompanies tooth loss.
Osseous Surgery
Osseous surgery, also called pocket reduction surgery, treats advanced periodontal disease by reducing the depth of pockets between teeth and gums. When periodontal pockets exceed 5mm in depth, regular brushing and flossing cannot effectively clean these areas, allowing infection to persist.
Dr. Mark Gutt accesses the roots and underlying bone through small incisions, removes diseased tissue and bacteria, then reshapes the bone to eliminate irregularities where bacteria hide. This creates a smoother surface that allows gum tissue to reattach properly. The long-term benefits include halting disease progression, preserving natural teeth, and creating an oral environment that patients can maintain through proper home care.
Gum Grafting
Gum grafting addresses gum recession by transplanting tissue to areas where gums have pulled away from teeth, exposing sensitive root surfaces. Several types of grafts exist, including connective tissue grafts from the palate, free gingival grafts, and pedicle grafts using adjacent gum tissue.
Dr. Mark Gutt evaluates each patient’s specific situation to determine which technique will yield the best results. The grafted tissue integrates with surrounding gums over several weeks, providing benefits that include reduced sensitivity, improved smile appearance, protection from decay, and prevention of further recession.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing represents a deep cleaning procedure that treats early to moderate periodontal disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line. This non-surgical treatment consists of scaling to remove buildup and root planing to smooth root surfaces, helping gums reattach to teeth.
Dr. Mark Gutt uses ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments to thoroughly clean affected areas, often treating one quadrant at a time. This procedure serves as a crucial first line of defense against periodontal disease, often preventing the need for more invasive surgical interventions when caught early.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal maintenance differs from standard dental cleanings in both frequency and intensity, designed specifically for patients who have been treated for periodontal disease. These specialized cleanings occur every three to four months rather than the typical six-month intervals. During maintenance appointments, the hygienist or periodontist examines gums, measures pocket depths, and removes accumulated plaque or tartar.
Dr. Mark Gutt emphasizes that periodontal maintenance is a lifelong commitment, as less frequent cleanings allow bacteria to recolonize treated areas. Many patients throughout Key West find that these regular visits provide peace of mind about their oral health.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
Periodontal plastic surgery encompasses cosmetic and reconstructive procedures designed to improve the appearance of gums and surrounding tissues while enhancing oral health. These procedures address uneven gum lines, excessive gum display, exposed root surfaces, and indentations following tooth loss. Common treatments include crown lengthening to expose more tooth structure, soft tissue grafts for aesthetic enhancement, and ridge augmentation.
Dr. Mark Gutt combines technical precision with an artistic eye to create natural-looking results. Modern minimally invasive techniques have made these procedures more comfortable and predictable, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort and quick recovery times.
