Healthy Smiles Begin with Healthy Bones
Periodontal disease can affect more than just your gums — it can also damage the underlying bone that supports your teeth. When bacteria and dental plaque settle deep beneath the gum tissue, they cause an infection that weakens the bone structure around the tooth roots. Over time, this can lead to tooth loss, discomfort, and changes in how your teeth fit together.
To prevent the progression of gum disease and restore the foundation of your smile, Dr. Fred Alger may recommend a procedure known as osseous surgery. This advanced periodontal care technique helps reshape the bone around affected teeth, reduce pocket depth, and create a healthier environment for long-term oral health.
What Is Osseous Surgery?
Osseous surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to treat advanced gum disease by smoothing and reshaping the damaged bone around the teeth. The main goal of osseous surgery is to remove bacteria and irregular bone defects caused by infection so that the gums can reattach properly to the teeth.
When performed by an experienced periodontist like Dr. Alger, osseous surgery supports gum health, prevents further damage, and helps maintain healthy teeth for years to come.
By reducing deep periodontal pockets, this procedure limits the spaces where bacteria can thrive, making it easier for you to maintain good oral hygiene and protect your smile with regular professional cleanings and proper oral hygiene at home.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
Osseous surgery is typically performed in conjunction with flap surgery, a technique that enables Dr. Alger to gently lift the gums and access the surgical site beneath the gum line. During the procedure:
- Local anesthesia is applied to ensure comfort. For added relaxation, patients may choose conscious sedation.
- Small incisions are made in the gum tissue, allowing Dr. Alger to visualize the affected bone and root surfaces.
- Using specialized tools, he removes diseased tissue, cleans away harmful bacteria, and smooths uneven bone areas.
- The bone structure is reshaped to eliminate hidden spaces where bacteria collect and to promote easier cleaning.
- The gums are repositioned and secured with tiny sutures for optimal healing.
Dr. Alger’s conservative approach ensures that as much healthy bone tissue as possible is preserved. This precision promotes tissue regeneration and reduces gum recession.
The Healing Process
After osseous surgery, most patients are surprised by how comfortable their recovery feels. While you may experience slight tenderness or mild swelling, these symptoms typically improve quickly with rest, counter pain relievers, and gentle home care.
To protect the surgical site, stick to soft foods for the first few days, and avoid disturbing the area with brushing or flossing until advised. Dr. Alger may prescribe a medicated rinse or pain medication to minimize discomfort and promote healing.
Follow-up visits are an important part of your periodontal care. These appointments allow Dr. Alger to monitor pocket depth reduction and ensure proper gum tissue reattachment. Within a few weeks, you’ll notice that your gums look firmer, healthier, and less inflamed.
By maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting for routine professional cleaning, you can prevent recurrence of disease and enjoy long-term optimal oral health.
Benefits of Osseous Surgery
Osseous surgery plays a critical role in stopping the cycle of advanced periodontal disease and preserving natural teeth. Key benefits include:
- Reduces deep pockets and removes hidden bacteria
- Prevents further bone loss and promotes new bone growth
- Improves gum health and overall oral health
- Enhances the effectiveness of home care and root planing
- Helps prevent tooth loss, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults being untreated gum disease
- Supports a strong foundation for future dental implants if needed
- Restores a smoother, healthier gum line and more attractive appearance
This treatment is one of the best ways to stop the progression of infection, stabilize the affected tooth, and protect the supporting structures that keep your smile healthy.
Is This Procedure Right for Me?
Osseous surgery is often recommended for patients with deep periodontal pockets or advanced gum disease that has damaged the bone structure around multiple teeth. If bacteria have caused bacteria-filled defects or irregularities in your jawbone, this procedure may be the most effective way to restore health and function.
Dr. Alger will perform a detailed examination of your oral health, including digital imaging and evaluation of pocket depth and gum tissue condition. He will discuss whether bone grafting or additional tissue regeneration procedures are needed to repair more severe damage.
Because every smile is different, Dr. Alger develops customized treatment plans for each patient. With early intervention and timely treatment, most patients can maintain their natural teeth and prevent the need for more extensive reconstructive procedures in the future.
Caring for Your Smile After Surgery
Following osseous surgery, maintaining proper oral hygiene is the key to long-term success. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush once cleared by Dr. Alger, and floss carefully to prevent the return of dental plaque.
Routine visits for periodontal maintenance help detect early signs of inflammation and allow for professional cleaning of areas that are hard to reach at home. With consistent care, your gums will stay healthy, and the underlying bone will remain stable.