Periodontal Surgery Combined with Multiple Extractions: A Case Report

BACKGROUND Dental extraction is the only treatment option for terminal stage periodontal disease. Remnants of the pathological periodontal tissue can still be present after the extraction. Periodontal flap surgery contributes to achieving a better regeneration process at the extraction site. This case report includes a unique unconventional approach to periodontal therapy, not commonly reported in the literature. CASE REPORT A 37-year-old man reported mobility and migration of the teeth in both jaws and was referred to the Periodontology Department of the University of Prishtina Dentistry School. The patient had no personal history of any current systemic condition or family history of similar gum conditions. After a clinical and radiographic evaluation (periodontal probing depth and gingival index), most of the front teeth of both jaws were diagnosed with terminal stage periodontal disease (stage 4, grade C). Modified Widman flap periodontal surgery was conducted on the maxilla and mandible to extract most of the front teeth. The sites of tooth extraction underwent profound debridement to remove the pathological soft tissues and sharp bone extrusions. The 4 postoperative follow-up visits at 1, 4, 8, and 10 weeks showed sufficient restitution of the wounds. He received temporary mobile prostheses for the areas with multiple extractions. After 10 weeks, he began treatment for a fixed prosthetic bridge. He had a satisfactory recovery and was followed up over 3 annual visits after his surgery. CONCLUSIONS Multiple extractions can be considered as a treatment option for terminal stage periodontitis.