A Periodontal surgery procedure may be recommended if your remaining gum pockets are too deep to clean or maintain non-surgically.

During the osseous/flap surgery procedure, the periodontist rolls the gum tissue back to better see the presence of calculus and tartar on hard to reach surfaces of the teeth. The periodontist then removes the plaque, tartar, and disease-causing bacteria from the root surfaces of the teeth. Once the teeth and roots are clean, the gum tissues will be secured back into place. In some cases, sharp edges of damaged bone or irregular surfaces are smoothed to eliminate areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. This will help gum tissue reattach to healthy bone and prevent the progression of periodontal and gum disease.

Reducing gum pocket depths and eliminating existing bacteria are an important part of preventing further damage that is caused by the progression of periodontal disease, and will help restore optimum oral and overall health. Deeper gum pockets become increasingly difficult to clean and treat over time so it’s important for you to reduce the depth of these pockets as soon as possible to stop the progression of periodontal and gum disease. Reduced pocket depths, a combination of daily oral hygiene, and professional periodontal maintenance care can increase your chances of keeping your natural teeth healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Periodontal Osseous or Flap Surgery hurt?

Osseous surgery should not hurt. Your gums will be numbed with local anesthetic so you do not feel any pain. Approximately 95% of our patients choose to have sedation dentistry to make the procedure even more comfortable.

How long does it take to heal from Periodontal Osseous or Flap Surgery?

Many patients return to normal activities the day after the osseous or flap surgery. The gums may feel tender for the first week after the osseous surgery. Internally, the gums take about 3 months to heal, however you won’t notice this process after the first week.

Is Osseous Surgery really necessary?

In cases of advanced periodontal disease in which gum pockets are deep, the only way to properly clean the teeth is to minimally push back the gum tissue and expose the area so it can be clearly seen and cleaned. Osseous surgery is typically reserved for the severe cases of periodontal disease.

Do gums grow back after Osseous Surgery?

Your gums are not cut away during osseous surgery. Rather, they are gently pushed back to expose the root and bone underneath. The gums reconnect to the tooth within weeks. Sutures are used to hold the gum tissue in place.

How much does Periodontal Osseous or Flap Surgery cost?

Gum surgery costs can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the number of teeth affected. The best way to estimate cost is to have your gums evelauated by a periodontist to determine the diagnosis and recommended treatment.

 
If you have any questions or concerns about periodontal surgery, please stop by or call our PerioLife periodontists in Dallas, Irving, Fort Worth or Keller offices.