Osseous surgery is a specialized periodontal procedure used to treat advanced gum disease, also known as periodontitis. As gum disease progresses, it can cause deep pockets to form between the teeth and gums, allowing bacteria to accumulate and damage the supporting bone structure. Osseous surgery aims to reshape damaged bone and gums to eliminate these pockets and prevent further progression of the disease. Addressing advanced gum disease early is critical to maintaining the long-term health of your smile, and osseous surgery can play a vital role in restoring your oral health.
What is Osseous Surgery?
Osseous surgery is a procedure designed to treat severe cases of periodontal disease by targeting areas of the gums and bone that have been affected by infection. When deep periodontal pockets form, they can trap bacteria and plaque, which are difficult to reach with routine cleanings or at-home care. Left untreated, this buildup leads to further bone loss and, eventually, tooth loss.
During the surgery, a periodontist, such as Dr. Godat, Dr. King, or Dr. Byakina, will access the roots of your teeth by gently pulling back the gum tissue. The infected tissue is removed, and the underlying bone is reshaped to create a smoother surface. This process eliminates the pockets where bacteria thrive, allowing your gums to reattach securely to the teeth. Patients who typically require osseous surgery have advanced gum disease that has not responded adequately to non-surgical treatments like scaling and root planing.
Benefits of Osseous Surgery for Gum Health
Osseous surgery provides several critical benefits for individuals dealing with advanced gum disease. One of the primary benefits is that it helps to prevent tooth loss. By reducing the depth of periodontal pockets and reshaping the bone, the foundation of your teeth is stabilized, and the risk of further bone and gum tissue loss is minimized. This not only preserves your natural teeth but also supports better overall oral function.
In addition to preserving teeth, osseous surgery is instrumental in reducing bacterial buildup. With fewer deep pockets, it becomes much easier to maintain your oral hygiene at home and during professional cleanings. The surgery essentially halts the progression of the disease, improving the health of your gums and allowing you to maintain a healthier, more stable smile.
What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
Before undergoing osseous surgery, your periodontist will provide specific recommendations to prepare for the procedure. This might include guidelines on oral hygiene leading up to the surgery, adjustments to medications, and dietary suggestions. These pre-surgical steps help ensure that your mouth is in the best possible condition for the procedure.
The osseous surgery itself is performed in our office. During the procedure, the gum tissue is carefully lifted to expose the affected areas. The roots of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned, and the bone is reshaped to remove defects and reduce the depth of periodontal pockets. The gum tissue is then repositioned and sutured in place. While the idea of gum surgery might sound daunting, the process is designed to be as comfortable as possible with modern techniques and anesthesia.
Following the surgery, patients can typically expect a recovery period lasting several days to a week. Mild discomfort, swelling, and tenderness are common, but these can be managed with prescribed medications and proper aftercare. We’ll provide you with detailed post-surgery instructions, including how to care for the surgical site, what foods to avoid, and when to resume regular oral hygiene practices. Most patients can return to their normal routines shortly after the procedure, though it’s important to follow all aftercare instructions closely to promote optimal healing.
Why Timely Treatment is Essential
Advanced gum disease is a progressive condition, meaning that the longer it goes untreated, the more severe it becomes. Ignoring early signs of gum disease can lead to more invasive treatments down the road, and in severe cases, tooth loss or even systemic health issues may arise. Osseous surgery is often necessary when periodontal disease has reached an advanced stage, but it’s important to remember that early intervention is always the best approach.
If you’ve noticed symptoms like bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or gum recession, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with a periodontist as soon as possible. Our team, including Dr. Godat, Dr. King, and Dr. Byakina, specializes in the treatment of periodontal disease and can help you explore all available treatment options. Early treatment can prevent the need for more invasive procedures and help you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Taking the Next Step Toward Lasting Oral Health
Osseous surgery is a highly effective treatment for advanced periodontal disease, offering numerous benefits for your gum and bone health. By eliminating deep pockets, reducing bacterial buildup, and preventing further damage, this procedure can help preserve your natural teeth and restore your oral health. If you’re experiencing symptoms of advanced gum disease or have been advised to consider osseous surgery, we encourage you to reach out to our team at Periodontal Associates of Memphis. Our experienced periodontists are here to help you protect your smile and achieve lasting oral health.