Operculectomy is the surgical procedure of removing the operculum, or the flap of gum that partially covers a tooth. Pericoronitis, a dental condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the operculum, is treated with this technique. Pericoronitis is most common in young adults, particularly those whose wisdom teeth are beginning to erupt.
On a partially erupted tooth, the dental operculum is a mass of soft tissue. Its most often connected with lower wisdom teeth, but it can also cover permanent molars and certain infant teeth. When a tooth begins to emerge and peek through the gum tissue, it is immediately noticeable. The gum tissue recedes as the tooth erupts and moves into its natural location in typical circumstances. There should be no gum tissue flap on the chewing surface of a fully erupted tooth. In the case of lower wisdom teeth, there is usually little to no room for them to properly erupt and emerge from the gum line. As a result, the operculum above the wisdom teeth does not entirely retreat, and the impacted tooth may be permanently covered. Oral health problems are occasionally caused by the presence of operculum. There’s a higher probability of biting the operculum or the cheek tissue that’s nearby. Because it is difficult to clean the area beneath the gums, tooth decay is another possibility. Even if you follow good dental hygiene, this problem can develop. The higher molars may also exert pressure on the lower teeth, causing discomfort.
Operculectomy is appropriate for patients who have acute pericoronitis or operculitis. This illness is marked by a sudden onset of operculum inflammation, which causes pain and discomfort. Swelling of the gum tissue, fever, and pus buildup in the affected area are all symptoms of acute pericoronitis. Other systemic problems, such as swollen lymph nodes, weakness, and general malaise, might occur if the condition is not addressed. The discomfort may spread to other regions of the face, including the ear, jaw, and mouth floor. It might also cause throat discomfort. In severe cases of acute pericoronitis, the patient may be unable to chew food or even open their mouth, making it impossible to eat.
Operculectomy is a reasonably straightforward and safe treatment with a high percentage of success. In most cases, patients get instant pain and discomfort relief. Further plaque or tartar buildup is also prevented. It will also be easier for patients to maintain this area of the mouth clean. If the tooth is not impacted, the operculum will be removed, allowing it to fully erupt. While waiting for the gum tissue to mend, the patient is encouraged to relax for several days after surgery and stick to a soft food diet. A follow-up visit to the dentist is also required to ensure that there have been no complications and that the tissues are healing properly.
