Periodontal Pocket Reduction

What are Periodontal Pockets?

When periodontal disease becomes severe, gaps, or pockets, develop beneath the gum line around the teeth as the surrounding tissue and bone deteriorate. These pockets fill with harmful bacteria and plaque. Periodontal pockets form when gum disease goes untreated, leading to infection.

Over time, the pockets deepen, giving bacteria more space to accumulate and thrive. As more bacteria inhabit these pockets, bone and tissue loss increases, which could require a tooth extraction.

Am I a Good Candidate for Periodontal Pocket Reduction?

To prevent your oral health from worsening, periodontal pocket reduction, also known as osseous surgery, can help reduce pocket depth. This gum disease treatment focuses on reducing pocket depth, removing infection, and reshaping the bone.

Periodontal pocket reduction is commonly performed for reasons such as:

• Preventing bacterial spread: Deep pockets let bacteria, plaque, and food debris build up. Over time, as they build up, pockets can deepen and lead to infection.
• Preventing bone loss: Infections trigger severe inflammation that, when left untreated, can destroy bone tissue. If the jawbone deteriorates, teeth can loosen and may require extraction.
• Making home care easier: Routine brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are vital for oral health. When pockets are too deep, patients find it hard to maintain good oral hygiene at home.
• Enhancing smile aesthetics: Jawbone deterioration, eroding gums, and other effects of periodontal disease can alter facial structure and smile aesthetics. Pocket reduction treatment helps improve aesthetics.

Can Periodontal Pockets Be Reduced?

Fortunately, dentists can reduce most periodontal pockets. Osseous surgery effectively treats deep gum pockets by providing a thorough approach to managing advanced periodontal disease. These techniques provide direct access to affected areas, allowing dentists to remove the infection thoroughly. During surgery, dentists can also reshape damaged bone and reduce pocket depth.

What to Expect During Periodontal Pocket Reduction

The periodontal pocket reduction process begins by scheduling a consultation with your dentist. During this visit, your dentist will examine your gums, teeth, and underlying bone to assess their condition and determine how much treatment is needed. After your consultation, your dentist will schedule a surgery date.

During the procedure, your dentist will reposition the gum lines around the affected area to access the infected pockets and remove bacteria and diseased tissue. Once your dentist removes all the bacteria, they will reduce the pockets by smoothing and reshaping the bone. After that, they will replace the gum tissue and suture it in place. To complete the procedure, your dentist will apply a periodontal dressing to the surgical sites to help with healing.

After the procedure, follow your dentist's post-op instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. Swelling and minor bleeding may occur after the procedure. An ice pack can help prevent and reduce any swelling.

Restore Your Healthy Smile with Periodontal Pocket Reduction at Point Hope Dental Care

Periodontal pocket reduction in Charleston, South Carolina is an effective solution for treating advanced periodontal disease. Point Hope Dental Care is here to provide the dental care you need. In a welcoming environment, our friendly staff and dentists will greet you and provide gum disease treatment to improve your oral health.

Call (843) 416-9053 to schedule a consultation at Point Hope Dental Care and learn more about osseous surgery today!