What is Osseous Surgery?
Gum disease occurs when bacteria buildup causes the pockets of your gums to deepen, which allows for more bacteria to accumulate, resulting in the wearing away of your gums and jawbone. Once these pockets become deep enough, normal brushing and flossing will no longer be able to remove this bacteria. In this case, osseous surgery (also known as pocket reduction surgery) may be necessary. 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.
Steps Involved in Osseous Surgery
During your initial evaluation, your periodontist will perform a thorough evaluation of your overall oral health to determine the severity of your gum disease, what the underlying cause may be, and what treatment option is best suited to address your needs. If gum disease is caught in the early stages, other less invasive treatment options may be explored.
If osseous surgery is determined to be the optimal treatment, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled. Prior to your procedure, your periodontist will cover the steps involved in the procedure, which typically consist of the following:
- Administration of a local anesthetic and dental sedation (if necessary). Prior to beginning the procedure, your periodontist will test to ensure you are sufficiently numbed and comfortable. If necessary, additional local anesthetics will be administered.
- Once it is determined that the anesthetic is working, a series of small incisions are made along your gumline.
- Next, your gums are folded back to access and remove the bacteria.
- Once the bacteria is removed, bone that is damaged or oddly shaped is smoothed. For severely damaged bone, guided tissue membranes and/or a bone graft may be placed.
- Finally, your periodontist will sew your gums back and place a dressing over the area to help manage bleeding.
Healing Process After Osseous Surgery
Specific instructions will be provided following your osseous surgery, which should be closely followed to ensure a fast healing process and reduce your risk of developing complications. While osseous surgery is highly effective in correcting gum disease, it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits and lead a healthy lifestyle to prevent gum disease from reoccurring. Steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing gum disease in the future include:
- Brushing and flossing twice daily
- Eat a healthy balanced diet, limiting foods and beverages high in sugars and starches
- Limit or avoid alcohol
- Stop smoking (if applicable)
By following these steps, you will greatly reduce the risk of gum disease developing again and eliminate the need for surgical interventions like osseous surgery. In addition to these lifestyle habits, it is equally important that you schedule regular dental cleanings and examinations every six months, or as frequent as every three or four months if you are at an increased risk of gum disease. Taking these preventative steps is the best thing you can do to avoid needing similar procedures in the future.