Osseous surgery is also known as pocket reduction or pocket correction surgery. It is typically performed after scaling and root planing or “deep cleaning”. Healthy sulcus depths are anywhere from 0-3mm and the most we are able to brush and floss and clean into the gums or sulcus/pocket is only about 1.5mm. So, in pockets greater than 3mm it is almost impossible to keep them clean at home.
By performing procedures to reduce the pocketing it makes it easier for the patient to keep clean at home. Our Periodontists, who are Diplomates of the American Board of Periodontology and Dental Implant Surgery, will move the gums away from the teeth and bone to get access to the roots of the teeth and bone. The roots of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected of plaque and calculus or tartar. Any bone that has been altered by disease is then smoothed to help reduce the pocketing.
Bone grafting and guided tissue regeneration (GTR) can be used to stimulate growth of new bone in conjunction with osseous surgery. Bone graft is placed, in areas where there is a gap between the root of the tooth and the bone, or in between the roots of the teeth. The bone graft has cells in it that stimulate the body to create and regenerate new bone formation. This increases the height and width of the bone around the tooth, which gives it more support.
Bone and gum tissue heal at different rates. Gum tissue heals much faster than bone does. In order to keep the new bone where it is placed during healing, a membrane barrier (GTR) is placed between the bone and gum tissue. This prevents the gum tissue from filling the space where bone was lost and allows the new bone time to grow where it is needed. Both the bone graft and the membrane are absorbed by the body and replaced with your bone and new bone formation around the teeth.
The gums are then sutured or stitched back to the teeth, sometimes at a lower level, now making it easier for the patient and their dental hygienist to keep clean. Ten to fourteen days after the surgery, the remaining sutures are removed and healing of the tissue is evaluated by our our Periodontists Dr. Daniel Thomas, Dr. Melissa Combs, Dr. Sara Linstadt or Dr. Jonathan Thomas.
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With 6 locations to conveniently choose from in Leawood, Olathe, Kansas City, Country Club Plaza, Lee's Summit, St. Joseph, and to best serve your periodontal needs.
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We had a fantastic experience here. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly, the facility was modern and clean, and most important of all, kid-friendly.
"Before I had my surgery my jaw seemed misaligned and my top teeth would bite down on my tongue that was sticking out of the side of my mouth. The surgery has corrected the problem and I am so grateful for Dr. Thomas delivering a beautiful smile. He can correct any problem, don’t hesitate call immediately."
Our board certified periodontists and implant surgeons combine the latest in cutting-edge technology along with time-tested techniques in order to ensure that you’ll always get the safest and most effective treatment possible.
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