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Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria which infect the periodontal lining of the gum. If not removed, this bacterial growth will spread and will begin to destroy the bone that supports the teeth. As bone is destroyed by the bacteria that is found on plaque and calculus, pockets form between the teeth and gums. As these pockets become deeper, it is almost impossible to clean the bottom of the pockets using toothbrushing and flossing techniques. If the pockets are not adequately cleaned and debrided, they will continue to deepen and more bone will be destroyed. This destructive cycle will continue and will eventually lead to tooth loss. The goal of all periodontal surgical procedures is to eliminate the pocket and to allow the patient to keep the gums and teeth clean using proper brushing and flossing techniques.
While a surgical procedure, periodontal surgery is generally very well tolerated by patients and in most cases can be performed under local anesthesia.
An incision will be made to allow us to gently pull the gum tissue away from the teeth. All calculus and plaque will be meticulously removed and all root surfaces will be smoothed. Antibiotic may be placed in the surgical site. The gum tissue will then be sutured back into place eliminating the pocket. In many cases a protective packing may be placed to keep the area clean and to facilitate faster healing.
The suture material (stitches) generally will remain in the mouth for 7-10 days
Though the gums will be more sensitive immediately following the procedure, there will be a significant reduction in pocket depth and a vast improvement in the condition of the teeth and gums.
Pocket elimination osseous surgery is a periodontal procedure designed to reduce deep gum pockets caused by periodontal disease by removing bacteria, smoothing bone, and repositioning gum tissue for improved oral health and easier cleaning.
Unlike non-surgical scaling and root planing, osseous surgery provides direct access to deep periodontal pockets that cannot be cleaned effectively with non-surgical methods, allowing removal of bacteria and reshaping of diseased bone.
Patients with moderate to severe periodontal disease, deep gum pockets (often greater than 5mm), and insufficient response to non-surgical therapy are commonly recommended for pocket elimination osseous surgery.
During surgery, local anesthesia is used, gums are gently lifted to expose the pockets, calculus and bacteria are cleaned away, damaged bone is reshaped, and the gums are sutured back to eliminate periodontal pockets.
Recovery varies by individual, but most patients experience initial healing within 1–2 weeks and full recovery over several weeks, with common symptoms including sensitivity, swelling, and mild discomfort that gradually improves.
As with any periodontal surgery, potential side effects may include temporary bleeding, swelling, tooth sensitivity, gum recession, or minor discomfort — all of which are typically manageable and part of normal healing.
Yes — by reducing deep gum pockets and removing disease-causing bacteria, osseous surgery helps stop bone loss and supports healthier gum attachment, which can significantly reduce the risk of tooth loss from advanced periodontal disease.
Alternative treatments such as laser-assisted techniques (e.g., LANAP) or continued non-surgical therapy exist, but osseous surgery remains a gold-standard option when deep pockets persist after initial periodontal care.
Coverage depends on your dental plan benefits, but many plans provide some coverage for periodontal surgical procedures when medically necessary; check with your provider to understand specific benefits and limitations.
When combined with excellent oral hygiene and regular periodontal maintenance, the benefits of osseous surgery can be long-lasting, reducing the chance of future deep pockets and supporting periodontal stability.
Please note: Summer hours may vary. We are open 1 Saturday a month, please call to confirm.
Please note: Summer hours may vary.