Pocket Reduction Surgery: Advanced Care for Gum Disease As one of the country's leading Periodontists, Dr. Gupta takes a comprehensive approach to treating gum disease and specializes in the most advanced treatments, including pocket reduction surgery. Pocket Reduction Surgery, also known as periodontal flap surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to combat the symptoms of periodontal (gum) disease at its more severe stages.Westwood Periodontics specialize in this advanced treatment to offer our patients the best possible path to improved long-term oral health. Below we delve into how this procedure is performed, its numerous benefits, and what patients can expect in terms of recovery and results. Procedure DetailsPocket reduction surgery begins with our team administering a local anesthetic to the surgical area, ensuring that you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. Additional sedation options are also available for patients hoping to alleviate any anxiety they may have regarding the procedure. Once the area is numb, Dr. Gupta will make a small incision and carefully fold back the gum tissue to remove the disease-causing bacteria and tartar from deep pockets around the teeth. After a thorough cleaning, the doctor may also reshape the bone around the teeth to prevent future bacterial colonization. To finish the procedure, the gum tissue is then snugly secured back around the tooth, reducing the pocket depth. This should help the tissue reattach to the healthy bone, facilitating easier cleaning of these areas, and preventing bacteria from building back up (with a proper oral hygiene regime, of course). BenefitsWhen appropriate, we may suggest pocket reduction surgery due to its numerous benefits, some of which include: 1. Improved Gum Health — By reducing pocket depth, this surgery helps in effectively controlling periodontal disease.
2. Easier Home Care — Smaller pockets are easier to clean, enhancing the effectiveness of daily brushing and flossing. 3. Halting Bone Loss — Cleaning deep pockets and smoothing the bone reduces the risk of further bone loss and potential tooth loss. 4. Aesthetic Improvement — For some patients, this procedure won’t just improve the health of their periodontal tissues, but also the appearance of their gums and teeth. Indications for Pocket Reduction SurgeryPocket reduction surgery is often recommended when the gum pockets have not responded to previous treatments, such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Another office indication is having periodontal pockets that are too deep to clean with regular home care, posing a risk for the progression of periodontal disease. What to Expect Following Pocket Reduction SurgeryRecovery from pocket reduction surgery typically takes a few weeks. P You may experience some minor swelling and discomfort at first, but this can be effectively managed with medications and specific post-operative instructions provided by our team. After the first few days, any swelling and discomfort should dissipate. To avoid complications be sure to follow our post-op instructions as closely as possible. This includes following a soft diet and adhering to a meticulous oral hygiene routine during recovery. Determining Suitability for Pocket Reduction SurgeryThe decision to perform pocket reduction surgery is based on a thorough periodontal evaluation. This includes measuring the depth of the gum pockets, assessing the level of bone loss, and considering your overall health and dental history. Advanced imaging may also be utilized to get a detailed view of the periodontal structures. A pocket depth exceeding 5 or 6 millimeters often indicates the presence of advanced periodontal disease, a condition that requires prompt and specialized attention. Should such a scenario apply to you, pocket reduction surgery is likely to be recommended as part of your treatment plan. What Patients Should KnowIt's important for patients to understand that while pocket reduction surgery is a significant step towards managing periodontal disease, ongoing maintenance is crucial. This includes regular professional cleanings, adherence to prescribed oral care routines at home, and possibly more frequent dental check-ups. However, each patient is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your situation. Dr. Gupta, with his extensive expertise in periodontal treatments, will ensure that each step of the procedure, from initial consultation to post-operative care, is carried out with the highest standards of precision and care. If you believe you may be suffering from advanced periodontal disease, please, do not wait. Call (551) 751-2024 today to schedule a consultation, and take the first step towards a healthier smile. |
Contact Information354 Old Hook Rd #201 Westwood, NJ 07675 (551) 751-2024 info@westwoodperiodontics.com Office HoursMon - Thur: 8am to 5pmFollow UsRequest an Appointment |
