Osseous surgery, also known as periodontal surgery, is a procedure that is performed to treat advanced gum disease. It is typically done after other non-surgical treatments have failed to improve the condition.
Gum Disease
First, let’s talk about what gum disease is and how it can lead to the need for osseous surgery. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. In its early stages, gum disease can often be treated with non-surgical methods, such as scaling and root planing. This procedure involves deep cleaning of the teeth and gums.
However, without treatment, it can lead to the development of deep pockets around the teeth. These pockets can become a breeding ground for bacteria and further damage the surrounding bone and gum tissue.
This is where osseous surgery comes in. The procedure removes the bacteria and infected tissue from the affected area. Then, your dentist will reshape the bone to prevent further damage. This helps to reduce the size of the pockets around the teeth and promotes the healing of the surrounding tissue.
What are the Benefits of Osseous Surgery?
One of the main benefits of osseous surgery is that it can help to save teeth that would otherwise need extraction. When left untreated, gum disease can cause the bone surrounding the teeth to deteriorate, eventually leading to tooth loss. By performing osseous surgery, your dentist can reshape the damaged bone. This will help to save the affected teeth and preserve your smile.
Another benefit of osseous surgery is that it can improve the overall health of your mouth and body. Several studies link gum disease to various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Treating gum disease with osseous surgery may be able to lower your risk for these and other health problems.
It’s also important to note that osseous surgery can be a long-term solution for treating gum disease. While non-surgical treatments can be effective in the short term, they may not be enough to eliminate the bacteria and infection completely. Osseous surgery can help remove the infection and bacteria and promote healing of the surrounding tissue, helping prevent future treatments.
Of course, it’s important to remember that osseous surgery is a serious procedure. However, only a trained dental professional should perform it. Your dentist will be able to assess your individual situation and determine whether osseous surgery is a good option for you.
If you do need osseous surgery, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare. This may include avoiding certain foods or activities for a period of time while your mouth heals. Your dentist will also likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure your gums and teeth heal properly.
