Osseous Surgery

Pocket elimination surgery refers to a number of different surgical methods aimed at gaining access to the tooth roots to remove tartar and disease causing bacteria.

Fill out our Appointment Form or call us at Ann Marie Adornato DMD, MSD, PC Periodontics and Dental Implants Phone Number 315-451-7151 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Adornato today!

Goals of Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery is used to reshape deformities and remove periodontal pockets in the supporting bone surrounding the teeth.  This is a common and very effective method of care for the treatment of more advanced periodontal cases. The ultimate goal of osseous surgery is to reduce or eliminate the periodontal pockets that harbor those bacteria causing the periodontal disease. Despite the word “surgery” the procedure is reported to feel more like a thorough cleaning. The specific goals of surgery include:

  • Reducing Bacterial Spread:
    Bacteria from the mouth can spread throughout the body and cause other life-threatening conditions such as heart disease and respiratory disease. Thoroughly removing the bacterial deposits under the gum line will help reduce the risk of those bacteria spreading to other parts of the body.
  • Preventing Bone Loss:
    By developing a cleansable oral environment, we can control the inflammation that results in supporting bone loss.  Red, bleeding gums, rotting teeth, and unsightly gum contours can leave a person feeling depressed and too self-conscious to smile. Fortunately, osseous surgery can help reduce bacteria, eliminate the environment that supports the growth of bacteria and reduce the risk of developing recurrent periodontal infections.
  • Improving Home Care:
    As the gum pockets deepen, they eventually become impossible to brush and floss effectively. Osseous surgery reduces pocket size, making it easier to adequately brush and floss.  The thorough daily removal of bacteria from the teeth and below the gum line will prevent further periodontal disease development.

What does the procedure entail?

Dr. Adornato will use a local anesthetic to numb the area for your comfort.  Once your are comfortable, Dr. Adornato will then access the periodontal pockets by elevating and releasing the soft gum tissues in that specific area.  This procedure allows clear visibility to the base of the pocket and the roots of the teeth. The roots are thoroughly cleaned by the scaling off of any remaining bacterial deposits.  Dr. Adornato may need to use special instruments to reshape or remove diseased bone around the teeth.  If the pocketing is very deep, bone grafting may also be necessary to fill in those defects.

It is common procedure in our practice to use dissolving sutures when needed.  The site may also be covered with a bandage (periodontal pack) or dressing. Pain medications, for your continued comfort if you need them, are generally prescribed following the surgery.

Some minor bleeding and swelling can occur after the surgery. This can be controlled easily by placing a cool pack on the outside of the affected area. Several follow up visits may be necessary to monitor your progress.  Continued home care maintenance is always encouraged following surgery.  Controlling the bacteria will hasten and improve healing.