Periodontal Flaps: A Review

Gingival and periodontal diseases in their various forms have afflicted mankind since the dawn of history. Periodontal disease is characterized by the loss of connective tissue attachment induced by the presence of periodontal pathogens within the gingival sulcus. The goal of periodontal therapy is to restore health and function of the periodontium and maintain the natural dentition for a lifetime. This therapy has evolved over many years to include nonsurgical phase and surgical treatment followed by periodic maintenance therapy. When treating periodontal disease the primary indication for surgery is direct access to and visibility of the roots of the teeth and the accompanying osseous deformities that may be present. Thorough debridement of the roots and bony defects is the foundation of all periodontal flap surgery used in treating periodontitis.