Operculum Tooth Treatment: Are You In Need of It?

What is a Dental Operculum?

Dental operculum is the condition where the excess gum tissues cover the biting surface of the teeth. As you bite down on food, the gum is bruised and swells up, resulting in immense discomfort.

Usually, the condition arises when your back molars or wisdom tooth erupts. The flap creates a pocket where food particles and bacteria can become trapped, leading to various oral health concerns.

You will be amazed that almost 90% of adults have at least one impacted wisdom tooth. The reason is pretty clear. The space at the back of your mouth is scarce and causes multiple dental issues, including gingival operculum.

Most often, the flap moves away as the tooth slowly erupts; however, if it doesn’t, it is advised to consult cosmetic dentistry in Chandler, Peace of Mind Dental Studio, where you will get expert dental treatment.

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• You are experiencing persistent bad breath. Bad breath indicates many dental issues, so if you experience it, consult us because it might indicate other dental infections.
• The pain and discomfort are severe, and you have difficulty opening your mouth.
• If there are signs of pus, redness, or swelling.

What to Expect from Your Dental Visit?

An operculum is a temporary dental issue that goes away on its own. As the tooth erupts, the flap moves away, and the pain and discomfort disappear.

However, in some cases, when the tooth is severely impacted, you might need an operculectomy.

Book an appointment now so we can examine if you need surgical intervention.

At your first visit, we will examine your dental health. Dental x-rays follow to determine the extent of your impacted tooth and whether you should wait for it to erupt naturally.

Antibiotics are suggested to ward off the infection and reduce the swelling and pain so the wisdom tooth can erupt easily. However, if the swelling and infection persist, then we advise operculectomy.

It is a minor dental procedure which is explained below:

• A local anesthetic is used to numb the area.
• With the use of a scalpel, we remove the excess gum overgrowth. As the tissue is out of the way, the wisdom tooth has ample space to erupt.
• The area is cleaned and doesn’t even require stitches.

It is a simple procedure that can save you from the consistent pain and discomfort caused by dental operculum.

Most patients don’t consider it a serious problem, and it leads to infection. You should consult Peace of Mind Dental Studio for prompt treatment.

Dental Operculum Aftercare

Operculectomy doesn’t require taking time off work or immense care, but taking good care of your teeth afterward is advised. Some of the aftercare tips are shared below:

• Warm Saltwater Rinses: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Medication: Take your prescribed drugs on time to avoid post-surgery pain, discomfort, and inflammation.
• Avoid Irritants: Avoid food items that might trigger irritation and cause infection.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: In cases of severe pain, persistent symptoms, or signs of infection, seeking professional dental care is advisable.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Chandler

Dental operculum might not be serious, but one must take preventive measures to avoid potential issues. Take good care of your dental health and schedule regular appointments with Peace of Mind Dental Studio to ensure good dental health.

Experience top-tier Cosmetic Dentistry in Chandler, dedicated to bringing back your beautiful smile. Whether you are dealing with dental operculum or hesitant to smile due to gum issues, contact us for expert care!

Tips & advice from Dr. Silverman:

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