Been told you need gum surgery and wondering what it involves? When periodontitis creates deep pockets and irregular bone architecture around teeth, osseous surgery can help. The goal is straightforward: reduce pocket depths, reshape infected or uneven bone, and create a clean, maintainable environment so your gums can stay healthy long-term. At Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry, we combine precise planning, gentle techniques, and supportive follow-up to deliver predictable results.
Why Pockets Form—and Why They Matter
Gum disease begins with plaque and bacteria that inflame the gums. As the condition progresses, the attachment between gums and teeth loosens, forming pockets that trap more bacteria. Below the surface, bone can become pitted or cratered. Once pockets are too deep for daily brushing and professional cleanings to reach effectively, surgical access becomes the smart next step to stop the cycle and protect your teeth.
What Is Osseous Surgery?
Osseous surgery (also called flap surgery or pocket reduction surgery) is a technique where we gently lift the gum tissue to access the roots and bone beneath. We remove hardened deposits (calculus), smooth rough root surfaces, and recontour uneven bone to a more natural, healthy shape. Then we reposition the gum tissue so it fits snugly, reducing pocket depths. In select areas, we may pair this with regenerative materials to rebuild lost support.
Who’s a Candidate?
- Persistent deep pockets after scaling and root planing
- Radiographic evidence of angular bone defects or irregular contours
- Areas that bleed on probing and trap plaque despite excellent home care
We’ll chart your gums, evaluate X-rays or CBCT imaging, and consider your health history. Sometimes we combine osseous surgery with site-specific grafting or periodontal maintenance for the best outcome.
The Procedure: Step by Step
- Numbing & comfort: Local anesthesia ensures a painless experience, and sedation is available if you prefer.
- Gentle access: We lift the gum slightly to visualize the roots and bone.
- Thorough cleaning: Calculus and biofilm are removed from root surfaces.
- Bone recontouring: Irregularities are reshaped for a smoother, healthier architecture.
- Tissue repositioning: The gum is placed so pockets are shallower and easier to clean.
Benefits Patients Notice
- Reduced bleeding and inflammation
- Shallower pockets that are easier to keep clean
- Improved breath and daily comfort
- A more stable foundation for teeth and future restorative work
Recovery & Home Care
Mild tenderness and swelling for a few days is normal. We’ll provide detailed instructions, including a soft-food plan, gentle rinses, and how to clean around the area without disturbing the surgical site. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient, and most patients return to desk work the next day. Stitches are typically removed in about a week, and we’ll see you for follow-ups to track healing and reinforce home-care techniques.
What About Esthetics?
Because we’re tightening the gum around the tooth, the teeth may look slightly longer in some areas. For most patients, the tradeoff—healthier, easier-to-maintain gums—is worth it. If esthetics are a priority, we’ll plan strategically and discuss cosmetic options after healing.
Why Choose Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry
We perform osseous surgery and related periodontal procedures every day, so the process is efficient, comfortable, and clearly explained. You’ll know what to expect before, during, and after surgery, and you’ll have a direct line to our team for questions. Moreover, we design a personalized maintenance schedule—often every 3–4 months—to protect your results for the long haul.
Next Steps
If you’ve tried deep cleaning but still have bleeding and deep pockets, osseous surgery could be the turning point for your oral health. We’ll evaluate your case and recommend a plan that is as conservative as possible while still achieving your goals.
Take control of your gum health. Call Connect Periodontics & Implant Dentistry at (310) 473-8770 or Contact Us to schedule a periodontal evaluation in Los Angeles.