Pocket Reduction Surgery: Benefits, Procedure, and Recovery

Pocket reduction surgery is a common periodontal procedure that is used to treat gum disease by reducing the depth of gum pockets. These pockets form when bacteria accumulate beneath the gumline, leading to inflammation, infection, and loss of tissue attachment around the teeth. Periodontal pockets can lead to tooth loss and other severe oral health complications when left untreated. A periodontist performs pocket reduction surgery to restore gum health, prevent the progression of the disease, and improve oral function.

An overview of periodontal pockets

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, results from bacterial plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. When plaque hardens into tartar, it irritates the gum tissue and causes it to pull away from the teeth. As a result, it creates spaces known as periodontal pockets.

Deeper pockets harbor more bacteria, leading to further infection and tissue destruction. Fortunately, pocket reduction surgery, also known as osseous surgery, can effectively reduce the depth of these spaces. This procedure makes it easier for patients to clean their teeth and gums while preventing further soft tissue damage.

The benefits of pocket reduction surgery

Pocket reduction surgery offers several significant benefits for individuals experiencing moderate to advanced periodontal disease. Some of these advantages include:

• Reducing harmful oral bacteria from the periodontal pockets
• Improving the patient's smile by reducing the size of the periodontal pockets around their teeth
• Improving the patient's overall oral health
• Preventing plaque and bacteria from reattaching to the roots of the teeth
• Reducing the risk of systemic health issues, such as heart disease, stroke, and respiratory, that are linked to gum disease

What to expect during pocket reduction surgery

The periodontist starts the procedure by numbing the affected area with local anesthesia to ensure the patient remains comfortable from start to finish. Once the area is numb, the periodontist will then make small cuts in the gum tissue to separate it from the teeth and bone. This access allows them to thoroughly clean the periodontal pockets, removing the infected tissue and promoting healing in the affected areas. Through the use of specialized tools, the periodontist removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the roots of the teeth.

In some cases, the periodontist will reshape the bone around the teeth to fix defects caused by gum disease. This process creates a smoother surface for the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth. After repositioning the gum tissue, they stitch it back in place, using either dissolvable stitches or ones that need to be removed later. The periodontist will clean the area after the surgery and may apply a protective dressing to aid the healing process.

Pocket reduction surgery is a relatively short procedure. In most cases, the treatment takes around 30 to 60 minutes. However, the length of the procedure will depend on the number of teeth that need treatment.

Recovering after pocket reduction surgery

Recovering from pocket reduction surgery depends on several factors, including the number of teeth treated, the severity of the periodontal disease, and the patient's healing ability. On average, recovery takes between two and four weeks. Proper postoperative care is essential to ensure successful healing and reduce the risk of potential complications.

Pain relief

Patients may experience mild soreness, swelling, or sensitivity following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, can help manage these symptoms. If necessary, the periodontist may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Oral hygiene practices

The periodontist may recommend gentle brushing and rinsing with a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash to prevent infection and promote healing. Patients should also avoid flossing in the affected area until their gums have fully healed.

Dietary changes

Patients should stick to soft foods as they recover from pocket reduction surgery. This can help prevent irritation to the surgical site. Commonly recommended foods include yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Ask the practitioner for a complete list of what to eat after the procedure and when to begin incorporating other foods into one's diet after the initial recovery.

Watch for severe complications

Like any other surgical procedure, pocket reduction surgery has potential risks and side effects. The most common include soreness, bleeding, swelling, and bruising. While many of these resolve on their own in a few days, it is important to watch for more severe complications. Patients should call their periodontist if they experience the following:

• Constant bleeding
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Untreatable pain and discomfort
• Infection or pus at the surgical site
• A fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit

Additionally, regular follow-up visits with the periodontist can help monitor the patient's healing progress and remove any remaining sutures. If necessary, the periodontist will evaluate the patient's gum health and provide further treatment recommendations.

Improve your oral health with pocket reduction surgery

Pocket reduction surgery is an effective procedure that helps manage moderate to advanced periodontal disease. If you have been struggling with symptoms of periodontal disease, Charles E. Dyer IV, DDS, MS, PC is here to help. Call our Cypress office to learn more about the procedure or to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.charlesdyeriv.com or call Charles E. Dyer IV, DDS, MS, PC at (281) 213-0900 for an appointment in our Cypress office.

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