Bone grafting materials commonly used include bits of a patient's own bone, cadaver bone, cow bone and synthetic glasses. The patient's own bone is preferable. The barriers, used to prevent soft tissue from growing into the bony defect, are made from human skin, cow skin or synthetic materials.

The gums are then repositioned over the treated site and secured in place with stitches. During the next six to nine months, your body fills in the periodontal defect with new hard and soft tissue, effectively reattaching the tooth to your jaw.

It is very important for you to keep your mouth as clean as possible while the surgical site is healing. This means you should brush and floss the rest of your mouth normally. If the surgical site is not covered by a periodontal pack, you can use a toothbrush to gently remove plaque from the teeth. Antimicrobial mouth rinses containing chlorhexidine are commonly prescribed after periodontal surgery. Although these rinses do not remove plaque from the teeth, they kill bacteria and help your mouth heal.

You may also have some swelling after surgery. This can be minimized by applying an ice pack to the outside of your face in the treated area. Antibiotics usually are prescribed to prevent an infection and these should be taken as instructed. Your periodontist will want to reexamine the area in 7 to 10 days.

Your gums in the area that was treated are more likely to recede over time. The teeth that were treated may become more sensitive to hot and cold and may develop cavities in the roots.