Osseous surgery is a procedure that involves the removal of infected gum pockets. It is used for the effective treatment of periodontitis. Treating gum disease goes beyond removing damaged teeth or treating cavities. Dental surgeons reduce the gum pockets, removing the debris or tartar that forms on the crevices. 

 

Getting rid of the infected tissue helps keep the rest of the mouth healthy. The surgical procedure helps halt the progression of gum disease. Osseous surgery is necessary not just for gum health but also for ensuring overall health. 

 

Why You Need Osseous Surgery

The main objective of osseous surgery is to reduce or eliminate the pockets that are formed due to gum disease. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease where the infection has not spread to the connective tissue or jawbone. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis or severe gum disease. 

 

Periodontitis can damage the bone that holds or supports the teeth. If the gum disease and the gum pockets are not treated effectively, it can result in tooth loss. Osseous surgery is successful for treating severe gum disease. 

 

Osseous Surgery Procedure

Osseous surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia. A board-certified periodontist performs the outpatient procedure. During the surgery, the surgeon pulls back the gums before removing the tartar buildup. The tooth is then smoothed out, reducing the hidden spaces where bacteria are likely to hide. 

 

When gum pockets are too deep, they become impossible to reach during cleaning, increasing the chances of infection. Smoothing the tooth surface through osseous surgery makes it easier to keep the teeth and mouth clean. 

 

Recovering From Osseous Surgery

Most patients return to their normal duties within several days after the surgery. The periodontist will give you some recommendations about your diet while you recover. You will also receive a prescription for pain medication. There are things that you can do to ensure a quick and successful recovery. 

 

Avoid smoking, avoid drinking through straws, and eat soft foods during the recovery period. You should also avoid strenuous physical activity after the surgery. Make sure that you change the gauze regularly and rinse your mouth using salt water the day after surgery.

 

Risks of Osseous Surgery

Any time there is a surgical procedure, there is the risk of complications. It is important to understand the potential risks associated with osseous surgery. The risks include the formation of cavities in the treated teeth, infection, a receding gum line, and tooth sensitivity. 

 

Proper care during recovery will help prevent infection. Treatment is available to correct receding gums where necessary. Teeth sensitivity will diminish over time, but avoiding hot and cold foods during the healing duration is advisable.

 

Treating Gum Disease

It is important to realize that by the time the dentist suggests getting osseous surgery, the gum disease has really spread. During the early stages, the dentist may attempt using less invasive treatments like scaling and root planing. 

 

Scaling helps remove tartar and plaque from under the gums, while root planing helps reattach the gum and tooth. If you have had osseous surgery on one or several teeth, you need to improve your oral hygiene habits. This will help prevent more surgery. 

 

Taking good care of your teeth and gums can prevent periodontitis.


 

For more on the treatment of periodontitis or to schedule an appointment, call Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology at our office in Brooklyn, New York at (646) 863-4810 today.