Pocket Reduction Surgery

This is a minor surgical procedure that is recommended when deep gum pockets are present and jawbone abnormalities are noted. The objectives are: to gain access to the tooth roots to remove tartar, disease-causing bacteria, infected tissues; to reshape jawbone deformities; and to reduce or eliminate gum pockets.

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WHAT CAN I EXPECT? 

Dr. Oakley will make sure you are profoundly numb, then he will cut around each tooth in the diseased area to release the gum tissue. This allows access to the tooth roots and bone. After he meticulously cleans the teeth and removes diseased tissue, he will reshape the bone around the teeth. Then the gums will be placed back over the bone and sutured securely in place. A chlorhexidine mouth rinse is usually prescribed. Discomfort is mild for 2-3 days and is controlled in most cases with over-the-counter pain medications, like Tylenol and Advil. You will receive detailed instructions after the procedure and will have Dr. Oakley's personal phone number incase concerns arise.

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​Benefits of this therapy include: reducing bacterial spread, preventing further bone loss around teeth, preventing tooth loss, fresher breath, and whiter teeth!

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Periodontal surgery can help prevent disease. Research has proven that bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and affect other areas of the body, exacerbating heart, lung, and diabetic conditions. Other conditions linked to periodontal disease include: Alzheimer's, auto-immune conditions, kidney disease, and obesity.