Osseous surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery or gingivectomy, encompasses various surgical procedures designed to access tooth roots for the removal of tartar and harmful bacteria causing periodontal disease.
Request an AppointmentGoals of Osseous Surgery
Osseous surgery aims to reshape irregularities and eliminate pockets in the alveolar bone surrounding your teeth. It’s often essential in treating more advanced stages of periodontal disease. The main purpose is to reduce or remove the deep periodontal pockets that harbor disease-causing bacteria. Despite the term “surgery,” many patients report it feels more like a thorough cleaning. Key goals of this procedure include:
Reducing Bacterial Spread:
Bacteria from infected gum pockets can enter the bloodstream and contribute to serious health issues like heart and respiratory diseases. Removing tartar and bacteria helps lower the risk of these complications.
Preventing Bone Loss:
The immune system’s response to periodontal bacteria can cause jawbone deterioration, potentially leading to tooth loss. Osseous surgery works to halt periodontal disease progression before this occurs.
Enhancing Your Smile:
Periodontal disease often causes discolored gums, decaying teeth, and uneven gum lines, which can impact confidence. Osseous surgery reduces bacterial infection and improves the appearance of your gums and teeth, helping restore a radiant smile.
Facilitating Home Care:
Deep gum pockets become difficult to clean properly with brushing and flossing. This surgery reduces pocket depth, making daily oral hygiene more effective and preventing further disease.
What Does the Procedure Entail?
Before the procedure, a local anesthetic will numb the targeted area. Dr. Uemura, Dr. Vassilopoulos, or Dr. Shah will carefully make incisions around the affected teeth to lift the gum tissue away from the bone and roots. This access allows thorough cleaning of roots via scaling. Then, specialized drills and hand instruments reshape the bone to restore its natural contour, sometimes removing bone to reduce pockets. Bone grafting may be performed to fill larger defects.
Afterward, the gums are repositioned and sutured. A periodontal dressing or pack covers the site. Post-operative care usually includes pain medication and chlorhexidine mouth rinses.
You might experience some bleeding and swelling after surgery, which can be managed with ice packs applied externally. If bleeding or swelling is excessive, please contact our office promptly. Several follow-up visits will ensure proper healing, and a diligent maintenance routine is crucial to avoid infection during recovery.