Pocket Reduction Surgery
When gum disease becomes more advanced, it can affect the bone supporting your teeth. Pocket reduction surgery is a procedure designed to restore your gum health and prevent further damage. At Corey + Then Dental Implants Periodontics Oral Surgery, our gentle approach is centered on your comfort and well-being as we help you preserve your natural teeth.
Contact Us
What Are Periodontal Pockets?
Periodontal pockets are spaces that form between your teeth and gums as a result of gum disease. When plaque and bacteria build up below the gumline, they cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating these pockets. If left untreated, these areas can become deeper and harder to clean with regular brushing and flossing.
Deep pockets create a place for harmful bacteria to thrive, which can lead to infection, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss. Because you can’t clean these areas effectively at home, professional treatment is necessary to stop the progression of the disease and protect your oral health.
When Is Pocket Reduction Surgery Necessary?
Non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing are often the first step in managing gum disease. However, if your periodontal pockets are too deep or don’t improve with initial therapy, pocket reduction surgery may be the best option.
You might need this procedure if you experience:
- Gums that are persistently swollen or inflamed
- Deep pockets that are found during a dental cleaning
- Bone loss that is visible on X-rays
- Teeth that feel loose or have started to shift
What to Expect During the Procedure
We want you to feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. Your journey will start with a personal consultation where we conduct a thorough oral exam and discuss your specific treatment goals.
Here is a simple overview of what happens during pocket reduction surgery:
- We begin by making sure you are completely comfortable, using local anesthesia to numb the area
- Our surgeon will gently lift the gum tissue to get to the deep pockets
- All harmful bacteria and tartar are carefully removed from the tooth roots
- The underlying bone is then reshaped to reduce the depth of the pockets. This step is also known as osseous surgery
- Finally, the gums are secured back into place to heal
Recovery and Aftercare
Your comfort after the procedure is very important to us. It’s normal to experience some mild swelling or tenderness, and we will give you clear instructions on how to manage any discomfort.
To help your recovery go smoothly, we recommend eating a soft diet for a short time and being very gentle when cleaning near the surgical site. We will see you for follow-up visits to check on your healing. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.
Contact UsBenefits of Pocket Reduction Surgery
This surgical procedure offers significant benefits for your long-term oral health. It is designed to halt the progression of periodontal disease, helping to prevent further bone and tooth loss. By reducing pocket depth, it also makes it much easier for you to keep your teeth and gums clean at home, which is essential for maintaining your health.
Pocket Reduction Surgery and Other Treatments
Sometimes, pocket reduction surgery is combined with other periodontal treatments for the best results. For example, a bone graft or tissue regeneration procedure might be used to help rebuild what was lost to gum disease. After your gums have healed, ongoing maintenance is key to preventing the disease from returning.
Why Choose Us for Pocket Reduction Surgery?
Our team has specialized expertise in treating advanced gum disease. We are committed to providing patient-focused care, creating treatment plans that are customized to your specific needs. Using leading-edge technology, we perform procedures with precision while always prioritizing your comfort. Our ultimate goal is to help you improve your oral health and preserve your natural smile.
If you are concerned about your gum health, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team.
Request Consultation
