What is Osseous Surgery?
When gum disease is present, the gap between your teeth and gums is amplified. The standard gum pocket is around 2 – 3 millimeters, but once the pocket reaches 5mm or deeper, the pockets are challenging to clean with a standard dental cleaning. Bacteria enter the pockets, wearing away at the gums and your bone. If enough bacteria enter, tooth extraction may be the only option.
Osseous surgery, otherwise known as pocket reduction surgery, is available to remove the disease-causing bacteria in your gum pockets. During the treatment, your gums get cut to create easier access to the bacteria under the gumline. We will repair the area if you have bone damage so your gums can grow back. For more information on osseous surgery at Western Mass Periodontics, contact us in Pittsfield or Great Barrington, MA.
Who is A Good Candidate for Osseous Surgery?
Indicators of gum disease range from red, swollen gums to persistent bad breath. In the early stages, scaling and root planing or antibiotics may suffice. However, severe gum disease may necessitate osseous surgery, especially if you experience symptoms like loose teeth or persistent bad taste. Some common indicators you may be a good candidate for this procedure include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing
- Consistent bad breath
- Changes in teeth alignment
- Tender or bloody gums
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
- Persistent bad taste in the mouth
What is the Osseous Surgery Process Like?
Osseous surgery at Western Mass Periodontics in Pittsfield, MA typically lasts about two hours. We administer local anesthetic to ensure your comfort and minimize discomfort. If you experience dental phobias, we're happy to discuss sedation options. During the procedure, a small incision is made along the gumline, allowing access to bacteria underneath. After bacterial removal, any existing bone damage is addressed by smoothing it down. Finally, the gums are sewn back, and we provide periodontal dressing to aid in bleeding control. You can resume your routine a few days after surgery.
What is Recovery Like Following Osseous Surgery?
Following your osseous surgery at our Pittsfield or Great Barrington, MA office, you might experience side effects like gum recession, tooth sensitivity, bleeding, or, rarely, tooth loss. The current health of your gums determines if tooth loss is evident, and our team always does all that we can to save a tooth or teeth. To aid with recovery, consider the following:
- Regularly changing your gauze
- Avoiding physical activity
- Rinsing with saltwater after the first 24 hours
- Maintaining a soft food diet for at least three days
- Avoiding the use of a straw (the sucking motion can open pockets)
- Using an ice pack to help with swelling
Does Insurance Cover Osseous Surgery?
Typically, osseous surgery is covered, at least partly, by dental insurance. Our team will work with your insurance company to figure out your benefits and any out-of-pocket costs before your appointment. If you don't carry dental insurance, our office takes multiple forms of payment to make it easier for you to obtain the dental care you need.
Western Mass Periodontics Reviews
Always have a good experience when coming here. I have been brushed off by many dentists and oral surgeons but Dr. Schmidt has really listened and offered solutions for me. Highly recommend and other dentist here is great as well. Thank you.
Dr Salzmann is very conscientious and caring !
Very knowledgeable staff. Dr Schmidt and his team answered all my questions and made me feel very comfortable.
First visit was very informative.
From the reception,to all the associates and the doctor wonderful experience, even having a tooth extracted unexpectedly.
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Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Heal Your Gums
When your gum health is compromised, it can result in jawbone damage and tooth loss. Prioritize your periodontal health and schedule an appointment with our team at Western Mass Periodontics in Great Barrington or Pittsfield, MA. We're dedicated to restoring your confidence by enhancing your smile.