Types of osseous surgery

Traditional osseous surgery involves an oral surgeon making incisions to access the roots of your teeth. Then, they use special surgical tools to reshape the bone supporting those teeth, eliminating the deep periodontal pockets caused by the bacteria responsible for gum disease. Then, the gums are stitched up, and you enter the recovery phase of the procedure. Traditional osseous surgery is quite extensive and results in a lengthy recovery.

In recent years, and at Quiet Valley Dental, we perform laser osseous surgery, a newer method of targeting and killing oral bacteria that cause gum disease. The benefit of laser osseous surgery is that it leaves the gum tissue intact and there isn’t a need for incisions or sutures. Recovery following laser osseous surgery is much easier and quicker compared to traditional surgical methods.

Is osseous surgery the same as a dental deep cleaning?

Osseous surgery is different from a deep cleaning, which is performed by a dental hygienist and used to manage mild to moderate gum disease. A dental deep cleaning is not considered surgery, while osseous surgery should be performed by a periodontitis or oral surgeon.

Benefits of osseous surgery

Osseous surgery has many benefits, including:

• Helps improve your oral health.
• Reduces harmful oral bacteria that cause gum disease.
• Reduces the periodontal pockets around the base of your teeth.
• Helps prevent plaque and bacteria from reattaching to the roots of your teeth.
• Reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other comorbidities associated with untreated gum disease.

If performed by an experienced dentist, osseous surgery is successful and poses minimal risks and complications. Plus, it can help propel you into having better oral health, and a more confident smile.

Risks of osseous surgery

As with any form of oral surgery, there are risks, including:

• Excessive bleeding
• Infection
• Tooth sensitivity
• Cavities in the roots of your teeth
• Gum recession

These risks and complications are rare, but our skilled oral surgeon can help you manage these conditions if you experience any. However, at Quiet Valley Dental, we firmly believe that the benefits of osseous surgery outweigh the potential risks and complications that may occur.

What should I expect after osseous surgery?

Since we use a dental laser to perform this procedure, your recovery will be less painful, and you’ll heal quicker compared to the traditional surgical method that involves incisions and sutures. However, you should expect to feel sore, and have some bleeding and swelling. Some patients may develop mild bruises along the side of their cheeks where the surgery was performed. However, these side effects are minimal and managed with at-home care.

Following surgery, take any medications or supplements as directed by your oral surgeon. The oral surgeon may recommend that you rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash daily to help reduce the risk of infection and keep the site clean. Additionally, avoid drinking through a straw for about a week, and opt for soft foods initially until your mouth heals and feels comfortable chewing food.

Will I need a gum graft?

Laser osseous surgery does involve removing some of the gum tissue, but only the diseased portion. However, gum tissue does not regenerate, which means that in some cases, patients may require a gum graft to repair the surgical area. Your oral surgeon will be able to tell you whether you require a gum graft.

Learn more about osseous surgery in Sciota, Pennsylvania

Osseous surgery can help you regain your confidence and get your oral health on track by treating advanced periodontitis or gum disease. If you believe you could benefit from osseous surgery or want to learn more about it, contact Quiet Valley Dental by calling (570) 992-7040.