Gum Pocket Reduction Surgery

Some dentists use the name gum flap surgery for this procedure. Whatever name is used, the goal of this surgery is to reduce the depth of the pockets. The first step is to make an incision that loosens the gum tissue from the teeth and supporting bone. The gum tissue is then lifted away from the teeth. This gives your skilled dentist access to all of the enamel of your teeth and the bone forming the roots. 

The next step is cleaning away any tartar that could not be reached with a scaling procedure and smoothing the bone of the roots. With this osseous (bone) surgery, we eliminate any little gaps that bacteria could take residence in. This cleaning process serves for eliminating bacteria colonies that exist at the moment as well. 

The gum is then stitched back in place and an antibiotic material is applied. A clay-like dressing protects the healing gums for the next week or so. 

When the gums heal, the gum line will be higher than before but the pockets will be much smaller. As the patient brushes and flosses their teeth after healing is complete, they will be able to reach the plaque forming on their teeth and remove it. 

If you receive this type of surgery, you will need to take gentle care of your gum tissue for the first week or so. To ensure a top quality result of our treatment, we will want to examine your gums shortly after the surgery so we can make sure they are healing well. Your well-being and comfort are our top concerns.

Recommending Pocket Reduction Surgery

We understand that this is an intensive procedure for our patients. We are intent on providing the very best in technical skill and treatment for every patient, therefore, when it is what must be done to preserve dental and oral health and treat periodontal disease, we will make this recommendation. 

Before the surgery, we will discuss your options with you. If you need this surgery in different areas of your mouth, we can schedule multiple appointments to make the procedure easier for you. It is important to us to involve our patients in their own treatment so they are informed and as comfortable as possible. 

We also educate every patient on why this procedure is needed and what the steps of the surgery will be like. We want every patient to understand the surgery they will experience and how they can prevent the need for treatment like this in the future. Education is very important to us at StarBrite Dental, along with excellence of care. 

If you have been told that you suffer from gum disease that is advancing and threatening your teeth and oral health, please consult us with confidence. Our dental practitioners and supporting staff are carefully selected and trained to make every experience as positive and comfortable as possible. We will always provide treatment plans that are designed to fully resolve any dental difficulties you are having and we are always willing to answer your questions. Call us to schedule a visit to experience our superior dental care.