Gums form the foundation that surrounds the teeth and holds them firmly in position.  Bacteria and plaque can co-exist and wreak havoc on the teeth and gums causing inflammation and damage. 

Eventually, this causes gum recession, attachment loss, and exfoliation of your teeth. But, fortunately, pocket reduction surgery can eliminate bacteria and plaque in order to strengthen the gums and halt further damage. 

Powell, TN dental services aim at providing its patients with pocket reduction surgeries to enhance gum health. 

Pocket reduction surgery- overview 

Pocket reduction surgery, also known as gingivectomy, osseous, or flap surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes the harmful bacteria trapped between the gums and the teeth. 

Oral flora consists of several strains of acid-secreting bacteria that demineralize the tooth structure and spread beyond the gum line damaging the alveolar bone. This leads to the formation of gingival pockets which deepen as the disease advances. As a result, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis causing tooth loss. 

Pocket reduction surgery halts this destructive process and minimizes the depth of bacteria-harboring pockets. 

Pocket reduction surgery is recommended because…

Pocket reduction surgery is a common procedure with the following goals:

• Reduces bacterial spread
  • Oral bacteria is believed to be a causative agent for several other health problems like diabetes, and heart disease. 
  • The surgery aims to eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of secondary infections.

• Halts bone loss
  • This surgery removes bacteria from the gingival pockets and curbs the damage to the gums and alveolar bone, preventing tooth loss.

• Improves the smile
  • Periodontal disease causes changes in your oral cavity that are not attractive to the naked eye. 

• Aids in proper home care
  • With the pocket reduction surgery, you can gain access to the subgingival area to maintain proper oral hygiene, through brushing and flossing.

Exploring the procedure 

Your dentist will evaluate your oral cavity through visual examination and dental X-rays, to assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. 

The surgery will be performed under local or general anesthesia (a numbing agent). 

A small incision (cut) will be made and the gums will be pulled back from the teeth, to remove plaque and bacteria.

Your roots will be exposed to perform deep scaling. Root planing will be performed so that when the gums heal they will reattach to a smooth surface. 

Antimicrobial medication will be administered to remove any residual bacteria and promote healing.

The gums will be sutured using small sutures and left in place for 5 to 7 days.

Bottom line 

Advanced gum disease leading to pocket formation can be devastating to your underlying bone. However, with pocket reduction surgery you not only save your tooth from falling out but can also improve your smile aesthetics.