Do I Need Osseous Surgery?
Because osseous surgery is typically reserved for patients with advanced gum disease, it will be necessary to schedule an evaluation with your periodontist to determine if your gum disease has progressed to the level of severity necessitating the need for osseous surgery. Common symptoms that indicate the presence of gum disease include:
- Gums that are swollen or easily bleed
- Chronic halitosis
- Loosened teeth
- Recessed gums
If you are displaying any of the aforementioned symptoms and/or have not had a dental checkup in at least six months, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to determine if gum disease has developed, and if so, what treatment approach is best suited to your needs.
Evaluation to Determine Candidacy for Osseous Surgery
To determine if gum disease is present, your periodontist will perform a thorough evaluation of your gums and teeth. Healthy gums should have a pocket depth of around 2-3 mm. If the depth of your pockets is greater than 3mm, this may indicate that gum disease has begun to wear away at your pockets. If gum disease is caught in its early stages, it may be possible to correct the issue with antibiotic treatment, a scale and root planing procedure, and/or lifestyle modifications. If it has progressed to advanced periodontitis and/or if these treatment approaches have proven to be ineffective, you may require osseous surgery.
Benefits of Osseous Surgery
While osseous surgery is typically reserved for the most extreme cases of gum disease, it is a highly effective method for removing bacteria that has accumulated in your pockets and repairing any damage that has occurred to your gums and/or jawbone. Eliminating bacteria and halting its spread is essential, as doing so significantly reduces your risk of developing associated health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory issues.
Having osseous surgery performed will also help ensure that you do not experience jawbone deterioration. In its most advanced stage, untreated periodontal disease will begin to cause jawbone deterioration, which can lead to further tooth loss and a change in the shape of your face. In addition to the negative impact gum disease can have on your physical health, it can also have a profound effect on your sense of self-worth and confidence.
Osseous surgery is not only an effective way to preserve your oral health, it is also an effective method for preserving your bright, full healthy smile. If your periodontist has recommended osseous surgery, it is important to carefully consider having this procedure performed. While it may not seem absolutely necessary, the unfortunate truth is that your gum disease will only continue to worsen if it is not properly treated, which will end up causing you larger problems in the long run.
To learn more about osseous surgery and/or determine if you may be a good candidate for this procedure, contact your periodontist today and schedule a consultation. This is especially important if you are demonstrating common symptoms of gum disease. If gum disease has developed, the sooner you treat it, the better your outcome will be.