Pocket Reduction Surgery in Beverly Hills
What is Pocket Reduction Surgery?
Healthy gums form a tight seal around the root surface of the tooth. But when periodontal disease advances, gum tissue can pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that harbor bacteria and worsen gum disease. Left untreated, periodontal disease can increase your risk of other diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Pocket reduction surgery, also called gum pocket reduction surgery (or periodontal osseous surgery in dental terminology), eliminates these pockets by removing stubborn plaque and tartar buildup, along with any diseased tissue.
Are You a Candidate?
Here are some other signs that you might be a candidate for this procedure:
- Chronic gum swelling
- Persistent gum bleeding
- Loose teeth
While more moderate cases of gum disease can often be treated through periodontal scaling and root planing, osseous surgery might be necessary if you have an advanced case. During your initial consultation with Dr. Rashti, the pockets between your teeth will be measured to determine the severity of the periodontal disease. If Dr. Rashti finds pocket depths exceeding five or six millimeters, she will likely recommend pocket reduction surgery.
Benefits of Pocket Reduction Surgery
Understanding the long-term benefits of osseous periodontal surgery can help you move confidently forward with treatment:
Prevent additional damage
When advanced gum disease is left untreated, it can ultimately lead to bone loss and the need for tooth removal. Pocket reduction surgery can stop the progression of this disease and help you avoid more invasive procedures.
Better home care
When pockets become too deep, flossing can become difficult. Many patients struggle to reach the bottoms of deep pockets, leaving bacteria unchecked and left to multiply. That’s why dental osseous surgery can help make your at-home care more effective.
A more beautiful smile
The late stages of gum disease often result in heavily stained teeth, unsightly indentations in the jawbone and gum, and a receding gumline. Pocket reduction surgery can remedy and prevent some of these symptoms that detract from your smile.
Some patients experience the benefits within just a few days of their procedure, while others might take several weeks.
What to Expect During the Procedure
As a practice specializing in treating patients with dentophobia, Dr. Rashti does everything possible to ensure your comfort during treatment. We understand that knowing what to expect can ease your anxieties, so here’s a look at each step of the pocket reduction surgery process:
- First, Dr. Rashti will numb your mouth using general anesthesia. You’ll remain awake during your procedure, so you can let her know if you’re experiencing discomfort or need to take a break.
- Once you’re numb, she will lift up the impacted gum. From there, she will remove tartar and plaque buildup above and deep below the gumline (which is why this procedure is also called deep pocket gum surgery).
- If necessary, Dr. Rashti will also remove diseased gum tissue and smooth out damaged bone surfaces to discourage future bacteria buildup. Should she find it necessary to remove extensive tissue or bone, she might pair this procedure with bone grafting.
- Once the procedure is finished, sutures will be applied to encourage the healthy tissue to reattach to the bone and stop bacteria from getting beneath the gumline.
Some minor swelling and sensitivity are normal for the first few days following periodontal pocket surgery. Be prepared to eat only soft foods for approximately two weeks following treatment. If necessary, you may be prescribed painkillers to help with the discomfort.
Meet Dr. Rashti
Dr. Rashti is an experienced periodontist in Beverly Hills who is passionate about enhancing the wellness of her patients. At MR Dental Aesthetics, we understand that your oral health is linked to your overall health. During your initial consultation, she will assess your overall oral health and educate you on steps you can take toward long-term periodontal wellness.
Dr. Rashti always puts function first and aesthetics second. Her focus is on treating underlying health issues before providing cosmetic treatment. We believe in building trust with our patients, which is why you’ll work exclusively with Dr. Rashti from start to finish. If you’re ready to work with a compassionate Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist, partner with MR Dental Aesthetics.
Ready to learn more about pocket reduction surgery in Los Angeles?
What Our Patients Say
Our dedication to our patients’ health and satisfaction is clear through our many loyal clients. Here’s what some of our patients have said about their experience with Dr. Rashti.
Book Your Appointment Today
Are you ready to prioritize your oral health and work towards a bright, beautiful smile? Book your gum pocket surgery consultation with Dr. Rashti today!
