Why Gum Surgery Is Needed
When gum infection becomes deep, only surgery can stop further bone loss and protect your teeth.
Gum surgery becomes necessary when the disease reaches a point where normal cleaning or medicines cannot stop the damage. Most patients need gum surgery when they experience:
- Deep gum pockets that trap bacteria
- Gum recession exposing roots
- Looseness or mobility in teeth
- Persistent bad breath despite brushing
- Swollen or dark red gums that bleed often
These signs show that the bone around your teeth is getting affected. Early gum surgery stops the damage and improves long-term tooth survival.
Myth: “Gum surgery is only needed when teeth are about to fall.”
Truth: Most successful gum surgeries are done before the teeth become loose. Early treatment saves bone, reduces pocket depth, and prevents tooth loss.
Types of Gum Surgery
Different gum surgeries are used depending on your gum pockets, recession level, and bone condition.
Periodontists choose the right procedure after checking how deep the infection is and whether bone loss or gum recession is present. Here are the most common treatments we perform for our patients in Gurgaon.
Flap Surgery
Gum Graft Surgery
Gum grafting covers exposed roots and treats gum recession using tissue from your palate or a donor source.
- Protects exposed tooth roots
- Improves smile balance
- Prevents further recession
Learn more in our Gum Recession Treatment Guide.
Osseous Surgery
Laser Gum Surgery
Laser gum treatment is minimally invasive and removes diseased tissue without blades or stitches.
- Less bleeding & discomfort
- Faster healing time
- No sutures needed
Preferred by many patients for comfort.
Myth: “All gum surgeries are painful.”
Truth: With modern techniques, most of our patients return to normal routine within a day.
Step-by-Step Gum Surgery Procedure
Here is a simple look at how gum surgery is performed. These steps apply to flap surgery, osseous surgery, and most periodontal procedures.
Your periodontist checks your gums, pocket depth, and bone condition. X-rays or CBCT may be taken to understand bone damage.
- Identifies exact depth of infection
- Checks recession and bone loss pattern
- Helps choose right periodontal procedure
A gentle numbing injection ensures your treatment is completely comfortable. Most patients feel pressure, not pain.
- Fast, safe and effective
- Keeps you relaxed during procedure
- No general anesthesia needed
The gums are gently lifted to reach deep tartar deposits and infected pockets. In laser cases, incisions are minimal or not needed.
- Precise access to infected areas
- Laser cases may avoid cuts entirely
- Protects healthy tissues
The roots are cleaned, tartar is removed, pockets are disinfected, and bone is reshaped if needed. Grafts may be placed for recession.
- Removes deep infection completely
- Reshapes bone in osseous cases
- Grafts used for recession treatment
Myth: “Gum surgery takes a long time to recover.”
Truth: Most patients resume daily activity within 24 hours. Modern periodontal methods are far gentler than older techniques.
Gum Surgery Stitches – Simple Answers
Many patients worry about stitches after gum surgery. Here is a simple guide so you know what happens, how long they stay, and how to take care of them.
Do All Gum Surgeries Need Stitches?
- Flap surgery: Almost always needs stitches to hold the gums in the new position.
- Gum graft surgery: Stitches are used both near the tooth and at the donor site.
- Osseous surgery: Stitches help gums sit tightly on the reshaped bone.
- Laser gum treatment: Many cases need little or no stitches, because the laser seals tissue as it works.
When Are Gum Stitches Removed?
- Normal (non-dissolving) stitches: Usually removed in about 7–10 days.
- Dissolving stitches: Melt on their own in 7–14 days.
- Your dentist will check healing during this visit and clean the area gently.
How to Take Care of Stitches
- Do not pull or play with stitches using your tongue or fingers.
- Brush gently and avoid scrubbing directly on the stitches for the first few days.
- Eat soft food on the other side of the mouth till your dentist allows normal chewing.
- Avoid very hot food, hard chips and nuts near the surgery area.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco; it slows healing.
- Take medicines exactly as advised.
When Should You Call the Clinic?
- If a stitch opens early and the flap moves.
- If you see continuous bleeding.
- If pain increases after 2–3 days.
- If food keeps getting stuck repeatedly.
Myth: “More stitches mean a bigger surgery.”
Truth: Stitches are small and placed only to support healing. Most patients talk normally and return to daily routine within a day.
Why Gum Surgery Is Worth It
These are the real benefits patients feel after treating gum disease early.
Stops Gum Disease From Spreading
Untreated gum infection moves deeper every month. Surgery removes the hidden bacteria so your gums can stabilise again.
Protects Your Natural Teeth
Gum surgery reduces pocket depth and prevents bone loss. Saving natural teeth now avoids implants or dentures later.
Improves Breath & Daily Comfort
Deep tartar and infected pockets cause ongoing bad breath. Cleaning the roots helps your mouth feel fresher instantly.
Boosts Gum Appearance
Healthier gums look tighter, pinker, and less swollen. Many patients notice a confident smile difference within days.
Did you know? Patients who treat gum disease early are 70% more likely to preserve their natural teeth long-term.
In our Gurgaon clinics (Sector 51 & 74), this is one of the most common reasons adults choose to get treated sooner.
Who Really Needs Gum Surgery?
Periodontists recommend gum surgery only when signs show deeper infection or bone damage. These are the clinical indicators.
Deep Gum Pockets (6 mm or More)
At this depth, brushing cannot reach bacteria. Infection stays trapped inside and damages bone. This is the most common reason for periodontal surgery.
Measured during a periodontal pocket examination.
Visible Gum Recession
“Long teeth” or exposed roots indicate gums are pulling back. Grafts or flap surgery help protect the root and reduce sensitivity.
Usually first noticed by the patient.
Loose or Shaky Teeth
Any mobility suggests bone support is reducing. Early surgical correction improves the chance of saving teeth.
A clear sign of progressing bone loss.
Repeated Gum Infections
Bleeding, swelling, or pus that keeps returning means deeper pockets are present. Surgery cleans areas that brushing cannot reach.
Associated with chronic inflammation.
Bone Loss on X-Ray
Once bone support reduces, non-surgical cleaning is no longer enough. Surgery helps reshape and stabilise bone levels.
Confirmed through dental imaging.
If you match 2 or more signs: a periodontal evaluation is recommended.
Most patients we see at our Sector 51 and Sector 74 Gurgaon clinics reach us late — early diagnosis always leads to better outcomes.
Gum Surgery Cost in Gurgaon
Here is a clear, transparent cost breakdown of different periodontal procedures at our Gurgaon clinics. Prices may vary slightly based on severity and number of teeth involved.
| Periodontal Procedure | Cost in Gurgaon | When This Cost Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning) | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per quadrant | Early to moderate gum disease; pocket depth up to 5 mm. |
| Flap Surgery (Periodontal Surgery) | ₹9,000 per quadrant | 6–8 mm gum pockets; deep tartar deposits; bone reshaping required. |
| Gum Graft Surgery | ₹5,000 per site | Gum recession, exposed roots, sensitivity, root protection. |
| Gum Contouring / Aesthetic Gum Shaping | From ₹1,500 | Uneven gumline, short teeth appearance, smile correction. |
| Laser Gum Treatment | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 (case-based) | Minimally invasive bacterial removal and pocket disinfection. |
Possible Additional Costs
- X-rays or CBCT: Needed to assess bone loss
- Bone Grafts (if required): Case-dependent
- Follow-up periodontal maintenance: Every 3–6 months
- Medication & post-procedure care: Nominal
These depend on the severity of infection and will be explained clearly by the periodontist during your evaluation.
How Long Does Gum Surgery Take? (Time, Pain & Recovery)
Here is a clear breakdown of how long each gum surgery takes, how comfortable the procedure feels, and what the usual recovery timeline looks like.
| Procedure Type | Procedure Time | Expected Pain Level | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flap Surgery (Gingival Flap) | 45–90 minutes | Mild soreness for 1–2 days | 7–10 days |
| Osseous Surgery (Bone Reshaping) | 60–120 minutes | Mild–moderate soreness | 10–14 days |
| Gum Graft Surgery | 30–60 minutes | Localised discomfort | 10–14 days |
| Laser Gum Surgery | 20–40 minutes | Least discomfort | 24–48 hours |
What happens if gum surgery is delayed?
Infection continues to move deeper, more bone is lost, and teeth may loosen faster. Early periodontal care protects bone and improves long-term results.
Learn the warning signs here: Periodontitis Symptoms
Why Choose Us for Gum Surgery in Gurgaon?
Gum surgery affects your gums, bone support, future crowns and implants. That’s why every case is evaluated carefully by our prosthodontic-led team, and a specialist periodontist is involved whenever advanced gum treatment is required.
Planned by a Prosthodontic-Led Team
Periodontist for Advanced Procedures
Surgery Only When Needed
Patients from Sector 51, Sector 74, Golf Course Extension Road and nearby Gurgaon areas trust our systematic approach. Most gum surgery cases benefit from a combined view — prosthodontic evaluation plus specialist periodontal intervention when required.
If you are unsure whether you need gum surgery, our team can help you understand whether deep cleaning, laser therapy or periodontal surgery is the right option.
Gum Surgery in Gurgaon
Frequently Asked Questions – Expert Answers from Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics
Gum surgery pain levels vary by procedure type:
- Traditional gum surgery: Moderate to significant discomfort. Requires prescription pain medication for 7-14 days recovery.
- Laser gum surgery (LANAP): Minimal pain. Most patients need only over-the-counter relief or no medication at all.
- During procedure: Local anesthesia ensures you feel no pain during gum surgery in Gurgaon.
- Recovery comfort: Laser procedures allow same-day or next-day return to work with minimal swelling.
Gum surgery success rates are highly favorable:
- Overall success: 85-95% for gum disease treatment and periodontal procedures.
- Gum graft success: 90-95% for recession coverage and tissue regeneration.
- Laser surgery advantage: LANAP shows superior bone regeneration compared to traditional methods.
- Long-term results: Proper oral hygiene and regular visits ensure lasting gum surgery in Gurgaon outcomes.
Gum surgery investment provides major long-term benefits:
- Prevents tooth loss: Treats advanced periodontal disease before extraction needed.
- Improves aesthetics: Corrects gummy smile, uneven gum line, and receding gums.
- Reduces sensitivity: Covers exposed roots causing pain from temperature and foods.
- Health protection: Eliminates bacteria linked to heart disease, diabetes, and systemic issues.
- Cost-effective: Prevents future expenses for implants, dentures, or complex restorations.
- Quality of life: Restores comfortable eating, confidence, and eliminates chronic bad breath.
Non-surgical alternatives depend on disease severity:
- Scaling and root planing: Deep cleaning for early to moderate periodontitis.
- Antibiotic therapy: Localized gels or systemic antibiotics control bacterial infection.
- Laser therapy: Minimally invasive treatment for moderate gum disease without cutting.
- Improved oral hygiene: Enhanced brushing and antimicrobial rinse manage mild gingivitis.
- When surgery needed: Severe disease with deep pockets (5mm+), significant bone loss, or advanced recession requires surgical intervention.
Traditional gum flap surgery drawbacks include:
- Post-operative pain: Significant discomfort requiring prescription medications for 1-2 weeks.
- Gum recession: 2-15mm tissue loss exposing tooth roots and increasing sensitivity.
- Extended recovery: 2-3 weeks with dietary restrictions and work absence.
- Bleeding and swelling: Substantial post-surgical complications from scalpel incisions.
- Infection risk: Higher potential from open wounds and sutures.
- Aesthetic concerns: Visible gum line changes and uneven appearance possible.
Laser gum surgery (LANAP) is advanced periodontal technology:
- LANAP procedure: Laser-Assisted New Attachment Procedure treats gum disease without scalpels.
- Precision technology: Laser distinguishes between diseased and healthy tissue, removing only infected areas.
- Triple action: Vaporizes diseased tissue, kills 99% bacteria, and stimulates bone regeneration.
- No cutting or stitches: Eliminates scalpels, incisions, and sutures.
- FDA approved: Clinically proven for true periodontal regeneration.
- Available locally: Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics offers laser gum surgery in Gurgaon.
Laser gum surgery advantages are substantial:
- Significantly less painful: Rarely needs medication versus 1-2 weeks of prescription painkillers.
- Minimal recession: Almost no gum line change versus 2-15mm tissue loss with scalpels.
- Faster recovery: 24 hours versus 14 days for traditional gum surgery. Return to work same day.
- No bleeding: Laser causes instant clotting, eliminating extensive bleeding.
- Lower infection risk: No open wounds or sutures means fewer complications.
- Bone regeneration: Stimulates new bone growth impossible with traditional methods.
- Preserves teeth: Saves teeth requiring extraction with conventional surgery.
Gum surgery recovery time varies by procedure:
- Laser gum surgery: 24-48 hours discomfort, normal activities within 1-2 days.
- Traditional gum surgery: 7-14 days significant recovery, 2-4 weeks complete healing.
- Gum graft surgery: 1-2 weeks initial healing, 4-6 weeks complete integration.
- Swelling timeline: Peaks at 2-3 days, subsides over one week.
- Final results: Complete bone and tissue remodeling takes 3-6 months.
- Activity restrictions: Avoid strenuous exercise 7 days traditional, 2-3 days laser.
Post-gum surgery diet focuses on soft, nutritious foods:
- First 24-48 hours: Cold liquids only – yogurt, smoothies, protein shakes, cold soups, lukewarm broths.
- Days 3-7: Soft foods – scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, pasta, soft fish, pudding.
- Days 8-14: Add steamed vegetables, soft fruits, tender chicken, soft bread.
- Foods to avoid: Hard/crunchy foods, spicy foods, acidic foods, sticky/chewy foods, hot beverages.
- Hydration important: Plenty of water, avoid carbonated drinks and straws.
- Return to normal: Resume regular eating after periodontist confirms healing.
Gum surgery cost in Gurgaon depends on procedure and technology:
- Scaling and root planing: ₹3,000-₹8,000 per quadrant for deep cleaning.
- Traditional gum flap surgery: ₹15,000-₹35,000 per quadrant.
- Laser gum surgery (LANAP): ₹25,000-₹50,000 per quadrant for advanced treatment.
- Gum graft surgery: ₹8,000-₹25,000 per tooth for recession coverage.
- Crown lengthening: ₹5,000-₹15,000 per tooth for cosmetic reshaping.
- Investment value: Higher laser cost offset by faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Sutures requirement depends on technique:
- Laser gum surgery: No stitches needed – laser seals tissue naturally.
- Traditional gum surgery: Requires sutures to close incisions and secure tissue.
- Gum graft procedures: Sutures hold transplanted tissue during healing.
- Dissolvable sutures: Dissolve naturally within 7-14 days, no removal needed.
- Non-dissolving sutures: Removed after 7-10 days in simple, painless procedure.
Speaking after gum surgery is possible with precautions:
- Yes, you can talk: Speaking permitted immediately after gum graft or laser surgery.
- Minimize initially: Limit excessive conversation first 24-48 hours.
- Temporary changes: Slight lisp possible if graft taken from palate.
- Return to normal: Speech normalizes within 2-3 days as swelling reduces.
- Work considerations: Most resume next day, extensive talking professions may need 2-3 days.
Most painful gum procedures ranked by discomfort:
- Traditional flap surgery: Most painful – extensive cutting, tissue removal, bone reshaping causes significant post-op discomfort.
- Free gingival graft: Two surgical sites create moderate to severe pain.
- Osseous surgery: Deep bone contouring causes considerable soreness.
- Connective tissue graft: Moderate pain from palate donor and recipient sites.
- Least painful: Laser gum surgery (LANAP) – minimal to no pain, rarely needs prescription medication.
Laser gum surgery longevity provides excellent long-term results:
- Permanent results possible: Can permanently reverse gum disease with good oral hygiene.
- 5-10+ year success: Studies show maintained healthy gums for many years post-treatment.
- Maintenance required: Regular cleanings every 3-4 months and excellent home care essential.
- Relapse prevention: Control diabetes, quit smoking, manage stress to prevent recurrence.
- Superior to traditional: Lasts longer due to true tissue regeneration versus just removal.
Bone regeneration from gum surgery depends on method:
- Laser gum surgery regenerates bone: LANAP stimulates true bone growth around tooth roots.
- Traditional surgery limitations: Removes diseased tissue but doesn’t promote bone formation.
- Regeneration mechanism: Laser triggers stem cells and growth factors that rebuild lost periodontal bone.
- Clinical evidence: Studies show measurable regeneration verified through X-rays and measurements.
- Saves teeth: Regrowing bone strengthens support, preventing extractions and implants.
- Best outcomes: Earlier gum disease treatment produces more dramatic results.
Need Expert Gum Surgery in Gurgaon?
Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics offers advanced laser gum surgery with minimal pain and faster recovery