Q: I had periodontal surgery a few weeks ago because of receding and bleeding gums (that I had complained about for the last year and a half and eventually self-referred to the gum specialist). They stitched me back up after surgery and even after healing I have some major concerns and am wondering what is typical and/or expected? When I went back for my follow-up, he said “I don’t like what I see” and has now indicated that I am going to need to either get a bridge for my bottom four front teeth or four implants (of course my insurance won’t cover the implants). I was shocked. Had no idea I would eventually (somewhere down the road) lose these teeth. They, particularly one tooth, are also MUCH looser now after the surgery. They were not loose beforehand. Is this typical? Recommendations?
A: I would suggest you speak to the Periodontist and see if the teeth can be splinted. You might want to discuss a night guard appliance also if you do choose to save the teeth. See if you can get the prognosis of the teeth from the periodontist as well. If these teeth are determined to be very poor, then the options of a bridge or implants might have to be considered.
