What Is an Osseous Surgery?
Osseous surgery, also known as pocket reduction therapy, is a surgical procedure intended to restore a patient’s gums to a healthier, more natural state. When a doctor recommends osseous surgery, the patient has pockets that are too deep to clean with daily at-home oral hygiene and professional care.
If one has periodontal disease, the supporting tissue and bone are destroyed, forming deep pockets around the teeth. Over time, these pockets become more profound and provide a larger space for bacteria to live. As the bacteria are allowed to increase, the body’s immune response results in further bone and tissue loss. To reduce the need for extractions, osseous surgery may be recommended.
How Is Osseous Surgery Performed?
During osseous surgery, Dr. Schoengold will gently fold back the gum tissue and remove the disease-causing bacteria before securing the tissue back into place. If bacteria have damaged the underlying bone, the irregular surface will be smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. This will also allow the patient’s gum tissue to reattach to healthy bone more effectively. Your periodontist uses a microsurgical approach to help promote the healing process and make your experience comfortable.
