Pocket Reduction Surgery

Pocket Reduction Surgery, also called Osseous surgery, refers to a number of different types of surgeries aimed at gaining access to the tooth roots to remove tartar and disease-causing bacteria in order to improve health and reduce pocket probing depths. It also allows for bone grafting to be performed around teeth to regenerate supporting bone that has been destroyed by periodontal disease. This form of treatment is the more traditional method versus LANAP.

For more information about Pocket Reduction Surgery or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Flynn and Dr. Flynn:

What are the goals of pocket reduction surgery?

Osseous surgery is used to reshape deformities and remove pockets in the alveolar bone surrounding the teeth. It is a common necessity in effective treatment of more advanced periodontal diseases. The ultimate goal of osseous surgery is to reduce or eliminate the periodontal pockets that cause periodontal disease. Despite the word “surgery” the procedure is reported to feel more like a thorough cleaning. The specific goals of surgery include:

  • Reducing Bacterial Spread:
    Bacteria from the mouth can spread throughout the body and cause other life-threatening conditions such as heart disease and respiratory disease. Removing deep tartar and thereby bacteria can help reduce the risk of bacteria spreading.
  • Preventing Bone Loss:
    The immune system’s inflammatory response prompted by periodontal bacteria can lead to bone loss in the jaw region, and cause teeth to fall out. Osseous surgery seeks to stop periodontal disease before it progresses to this level.
  • Enhancing the Smile:
    Mouths plagued with periodontal disease are often unsightly. Unhealthy discolored gums, rotting teeth, and ridge indentations can leave a person feeling depressed and too self-conscious to smile. Fortunately, osseous surgery can help reduce bacteria and disease and thereby restore your mouth to its former radiance, while restoring confidence at the same time.
  • Facilitating Home Care:
    As the gum pocket deepens, it can become nearly impossible to brush and floss adequately. Osseous surgery reduces pocket size, making it easier to brush and floss, and thereby prevent further periodontal disease.

What does the procedure entail?

A local anesthetic will be used to numb the area prior to surgery. First, Dr. Jon Flynn or Dr. Monique Flynn will cut around each tooth of the affected area to release the gum tissue from the bone. This allows access to the bone and roots of the teeth. After the roots have been thoroughly cleaned through scaling, a drill and hand tools may be used to reshape the bone around the teeth. Bone is removed in some areas to restore the normal rise and fall of the bone, but at a lower level. Bone grafting may also be necessary to fill in large defects.

Next, the gums will be placed back over the remaining bone and sutured in place. The site may also be covered with a bandage (periodontal pack) or dressing. Pain medicine and mouth rinses containing chlorhexidine are generally prescribed following the surgery.

Do not be alarmed if bleeding and swelling occur after the surgery. This can be controlled easily by placing an ice pack on the outside of the affected area. In cases where the bleeding and swelling is in excess, it is advised that you call to notify our office. Several follow up visits may be necessary and you must fulfill a meticulous maintenance program especially during the initial phases of healing to avoid post-operative infection.

Tennessee Valley Periodontics, PC

5 out of 5 stars based on 10 Osseous Surgery reviews

Patient Review by Joy V

Friendly & polite office staff, best hygienist, & knowledgeable doctor! There was no wait, was taken right back to treatment room! Would highly recommend this office for your periodontal needs!

- Joy V

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Scott P

Everything was explained clearl. I was given options and explanations the entire staff was friendly and helpful. I felt very comfortable with the entire process.

- Scott P

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by JoAnn M

I would recommend Dr. Monique Flynn and her staff for any dental work.

- JoAnn M

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by James D

I highly recommend Tennessee Valley Periodontics and their staff. Jon Flynn made me feel at ease and relaxed while performing my treatment. I look forward to my return visit.

- James D

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Colter F

Took care of me like they was my family would recommend them to anyone

- Colter F

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Jim A

I have been a patient with TN Valley Periodontics for several years and I have always received excellent care. If you are nervous about your appointment Dr. Jon and Dr. Monique will put you at ease quickly. I highly recommend them to anyone who needs Perio care. you won't be disappointed.

- Jim A

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Joseph R

This was a GREAT experience. I highly recommend Dr. Flynn for any perio work you need. I have went to another Perio specialist and Dr. Flynn and staff are far and away more professional in their approach and methods.

- Joseph R

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Michelle S

great doctors and staff - thank you!

- Michelle S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Melissa S

Thank you for a wonderful experience!

- Melissa S

5 out of 5 stars on

Patient Review by Michelle S

Wonderful doctors and staff!

- Michelle S

5 out of 5 stars on