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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Do Flaps On Gum Peel Off, With Normal Brushing Of Teeth?

I had my wisdom teeth removed a week ago and today I went back for a routine checkup. I asked the dentist about a small 'flap' of gum next to a molar, near where a wisdom tooth was removed, and he said it was normal and brushing would remove it over time. What's your thoughts? I forget what he called it, but I think it was called an operculum.
Wed, 6 Aug 2014
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Dentist, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 's  Response
Thanks for your query, I have gone through your query.
The soft tissue flap could be the operculum or the tissue covering the wisdom tooth, If the flap has not been removed during removal of the wisdom tooth then it can be present like this. Nothing to worry, if it causes pain or any irritation then you can get it excised Under local anesthesia.
I hope my answer will help you, take care.
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Dentist Dr. Lizabeth Sloane's  Response
Hello,
This extra tissue after an extraction is common in the intial stages of healing. Continue to rinse vigorously and gently brush the area to help increase circulation and healing. There will continue to be shrinking and firming of the tissue. Try to keep the area clean and make sure nothing gets caught under the tissue. Sometimes a procedure called a distal wedge can be completed if there is excess tissue causing difficulties with cleaning post surgery.
Usually an operculum is present before the extraction or while a tooth is trying to erupt. Follow all instructions provided by your dentist. Plan a return visit if this is bothersome in a couple of months. Have your dentist check the area during your routine dental exam and ask if you are cleaning well in this area. I am not overly concerned with your description and am glad that you already had a follow up visit to check for proper healing.
Thank you for your inquiry and I hope you will continue to heal well.
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Do Flaps On Gum Peel Off, With Normal Brushing Of Teeth?

Thanks for your query, I have gone through your query. The soft tissue flap could be the operculum or the tissue covering the wisdom tooth, If the flap has not been removed during removal of the wisdom tooth then it can be present like this. Nothing to worry, if it causes pain or any irritation then you can get it excised Under local anesthesia. I hope my answer will help you, take care.