Pocket Reduction Surgery in Tustin, CA
Reduce Deep Gum Pockets and Protect Your Teeth
When gum disease leaves deep pockets that a deep cleaning can't fully clean, pocket reduction surgery (osseous surgery) reduces them. Smaller pockets are easier to keep clean, which helps protect your teeth.
- For deep pockets that a deep cleaning can't reach
- Helps stop bone loss from gum disease
- Treated by a dentist with periodontics training
- Done one area of the mouth at a time
- Done with local numbing
Example only. Your rate and monthly payment depend on approval. Your exact cost is confirmed after your exam.
What is pocket reduction surgery?
In advanced gum disease, the pockets between the teeth and gums become too deep to clean, and bacteria keep damaging the bone. During pocket reduction surgery, the gum is gently folded back, bacteria and tartar are removed, and uneven bone is smoothed. The gum is then secured so it fits more snugly around the tooth.
It is usually recommended after a deep cleaning when pockets stay deep. Dr. Desai has postgraduate training in periodontics, the specialty that treats the gums and the bone that supports the teeth.
You may need pocket reduction if
- Gum pockets stay deep after a deep cleaning
- X-rays show bone loss around the teeth
- Gums bleed or are infected despite good home care
- Teeth are starting to loosen. Read Bleeding Gums
What to expect
Gum evaluation
We measure your pockets and check your X-rays.
Treatment
The area is numbed, cleaned below the gum and the bone is smoothed. Bone grafting is sometimes done at the same time.
Healing and maintenance
You get aftercare instructions, and maintenance cleanings keep the area healthy.
Cost, Insurance and Payments
Pocket reduction surgery is about $30 to $50 a month per area of the mouth with financing. Many PPO plans pay part of gum surgery. We check your benefits and explain your cost before treatment, and monthly payments are available.
Related guides
Common Questions
Is pocket reduction surgery painful?
The area is numbed during treatment. Some soreness for a few days afterward is common and can be managed.
Will my teeth look different afterward?
The gums may sit slightly lower on the teeth, and some teeth may feel a little more sensitive.
Is bone grafting done at the same time?
Sometimes. When bone has been lost, a bone graft may be placed during the same surgery to help rebuild support.
Can I avoid surgery?
Early gum disease can often be treated with a deep cleaning and laser bacterial reduction. Surgery is recommended when pockets stay deep.
Told you have deep gum pockets?
Book a gum evaluation in Tustin. Larwin Square Dentistry, 604 E 1st St, Tustin. Serving Irvine, City of Orange, Santa Ana and the rest of Orange County.