Surgery for pocket reduction typically lasts two hours. A dentist is usually the one who performs the procedure. In the case that root planning or antibiotics are unable to treat your severe gum disease, your dentist may suggest pocket reduction surgery.
What Is pocket reduction surgery?
A surgical treatment called pocket reduction is used to get rid of dangerous bacteria that have become stuck between the gums and teeth.

Scaling and root planning can help cure moderate cases of gum disease, but when the illness has progressed to an advanced level, pocket reduction surgery is frequently required.
Your periodontist may combine pocket reduction with additional operations, such as bone graft or tissue regeneration, depending on the specifics of your case.
What to Expect During Pocket Reduction Surgery:
- Your gums would be treated with such a local anesthetic.
- They will then fold back your gums and clean the bacteria beneath them.
- They will then smooth out any areas of the bone that are damaged or irregularly shaped.
- The gum tissue will next be gently pulled back to reveal the plaque and tartar buildup.
- Then they will clean the bacteria from your tooth roots and eliminate any unhealthy gum tissue.
- It is possible to smooth or reshape any rough or irregular bone surfaces to stop germs from growing there again readily in the future.
- The gums will then be sutured by your periodontist in a way that lessens the depth of the pocket. This will aid in the tissue’s reattachment to the sound bone and stop further bacterial regrowth under your gums.
What to Expect After Pocket Reduction Surgery
In the days immediately following pocket reduction surgery, you could feel a little sore and swollen. It may be beneficial to alternately apply a cold compress to the swollen area every 15 minutes. In order to treat any remaining soreness, your periodontist may also write you a prescription for medications.
Additionally, you will need to follow a soft-food diet for two weeks. You may repair your mouth while consuming meals like mashed potatoes, soups, apple sauce, broths, oats, pudding, and more to help you acquire the vitamins and nutrients you require.
Are You a Good Candidate?
To find out if pocket reduction surgery is right for you, schedule a discussion with a dental surgeon. During this appointment, he or she will use a special probe to measure the pockets between your gums and teeth.
A pocket depth of 5 or 6 millimeters or more indicates developed gum disease. If this is the case, your periodontist will almost certainly recommend pocket reduction surgery.
Is it Possible to Avoid Pocket Reduction Surgery?
Your first thought could be to wish you never need dental pocket reduction surgery when you hear about it. You might not, too.
The best defense against gum disease and the development of dental pockets is a two-pronged strategy that combines a successful daily oral hygiene regimen with regular dental examinations and cleanings.
Brushing and flossing are two essential components of dental hygiene practice. Get between all of your teeth, especially the ones in the back of your mouth, by flossing once a day. Additionally, wash your tongue and apply mouthwash.
Additional advice on how to brush and floss properly as well as recommendations for the best products can be obtained from your dentist.
Signs and Symptoms pocket reduction surgery
If you detect any of the following, you should notify your dentist right away:
». Purple and red gums.
». Floater or swollen gums
». Gum bleeding
». Soft gums.
». Newly formed gaps in the teeth.
». Teeth that appear longer than they did previously due to the receding gums
painful chewing.
». A modification in how your teeth bite together.
». Dental issues.
». Halitosis
Final Thoughts on Pocket Reduction Surgery
Following pocket reduction surgery, patients can confidently anticipate a significant decrease in the depth of their gum pockets as well as a significant increase in the health of their teeth and gums. Contact Among Health for a consultation right away if you require periodontal pocket reduction surgery or treatment for any aspect of gum disease.
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