Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery, sometimes referred to as pocket reduction surgery or gingivectomy, refers to a number of different surgeries aimed at gaining access to the tooth roots to remove tartar and disease-causing bacteria.

GOALS OF OSSEOUS SURGERY

Osseous surgery is used to reshape deformities and remove pockets in the alveolar bone surrounding the teeth. It is a common necessity in effective treatment of more advanced periodontal diseases. The ultimate goal of osseous surgery is to reduce or eliminate the periodontal pockets that cause 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. Removing deep tartar and thereby bacteria can help reduce the risk of bacteria spreading.
  • Preventing Bone Loss:
    The immune systems inflammatory response prompted by periodontal bacteria can lead to bone loss in the jaw region, and cause teeth to fall out. Osseous surgery seeks to stop periodontal disease before it progresses to this level.
  • Enhancing the Smile:
    Mouths plagued with periodontal disease are often unsightly. Brown gums, rotting teeth, and ridge indentations can leave a person feeling depressed and too self-conscious to smile. Fortunately, osseous surgery can help reduce bacteria and disease and thereby restore your mouth to its former radiance, while restoring confidence at the same time.
  • Facilitating Home Care:
    As the gum pocket deepens, it can become nearly impossible to brush and floss adequately. Osseous surgery reduces pocket size, making it easier to brush and floss, and thereby prevent further periodontal disease.

WHAT DOES THE PROCEDURE ENTAIL?

A local anesthetic will be used to numb the area prior to surgery. First, Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Matoska, Dr. Otomo-Corgel and Dr. Ahn will cut around each tooth of the affected area to release the gum tissue from the bone. This allows access to the bone and roots of the teeth. After the roots have been thoroughly cleaned through scaling, a drill and hand tools will be used to reshape the bone around the teeth. Bone is removed in some areas to restore the normal rise and fall of the bone, but at a lower level. Bone grafting may also be necessary to fill in large defects.

Next, the gums will be placed back over the remaining bone and suture them in place. The site will also be covered with a bandage (periodontal pack) or dressing. Pain medicine and mouth rinses containing chlorhexidine are generally prescribed following the surgery.

Do not be alarmed if bleeding and swelling occur after the surgery. This can be controlled easily by placing an ice pack on the outside of the affected area. In cases where the bleeding and swelling is in excess, it is advised that you call to notify our office. Several follow up visits may be necessary and you must fulfill a meticulous maintenance program especially during the initial phases of healing to avoid post-operative infection.

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Testimonials

Perio Implant Health Professionals is proud to serve our community in Los Angeles, CA, with integrity, passion, and kindness. See what our patients have to say about us.
I went in today for a consultation and had a great experience. I am terrified of going to the dentist but Dr. Rodriguez was kind and patient with me while I had a mini breakdown. His assistants Danny and Mariano were also very kind. I have my surgery appointment in August and although I am nervous, I know I'll be in good hands.

Athenas O.

Tampa, FL


I met Dr Joan Otomo-Corgel while bringing my client to see her. While there I showed her my front gums that had amalgam leaking from very old post & core with crowns & multiple bone graft procedures.  My dentist sent my X-rays to her office and she examined my whole mouth to advise me & my dentist what she suggests as treatment options. Meeting Dr. Otomo- Corgel gave me great peace of mind about next steps. Once that part of my mouth is tackled, I would definitely come back for an implant consultation in another part of my mouth!  Her assistant Marcello was very welcoming & thorough with my intake & exam. What a blessing!

Lisa B.

Tampa, FL

Dr. Otomo is a caring and highly skilled periodontist.  I've suffered from chronic gum inflammation for years, but have seen significant improvement since I began seeing her.  She's active in the research aspects of her field and knowledgeable of the latest treatments. Her sense of humor is a nice bonus.

Ross D.

Tampa, FL