What is the difference between the two categories of surgery (“pockets” and “crown length, recession”) which appear on the Treatments Performed screen?
The distinction between surgery for “pockets” and “crown length, recession” is the purpose of the surgery. Curettage, gingivectomy, gingival flap surgery, ENAP, and osseous surgery are generally to effect a change in the pocket. Crown lengthening surgery increases the visible amount of tooth (sticking out of the gums) and is not meant to “reduce” pocket depth. The method of osseous surgery is identical to crown lengthening surgery. The only differences are purpose and the former is done where periodontal disease exists. Crown lengthening surgery is done where periodontal disease does not exist. Mucogingival surgery includes several types all of which reduce the visible amount of tooth, create a thicker and wider amount of gum tissue or achieve both results. Mucogingival surgery is done because of recession. The purpose of these procedures is to improve appearance, prevent recession, or both.
