Osseous Surgery

Osseous surgery, also known as pocket reduction surgery or flap surgery, is a procedure used to treat advanced periodontal disease when non-surgical approaches have been unable to adequately control the condition. Non-surgical therapies such as scaling and root planing, laser treatment, and subgingival irrigation are always attempted first to reduce bacterial load and inflammation. When these efforts fail to resolve deep pockets and ongoing bone loss, osseous surgery becomes necessary. During the procedure, the gum tissue is gently reflected back to access the underlying bone. Diseased tissue is removed, the bone is reshaped to eliminate craters and irregularities, and the gums are repositioned snugly around the teeth. This reduces pocket depths, making it easier to maintain your periodontal health at home and during professional cleanings.

It is important to understand the distinction between osseous surgery and guided tissue regeneration (GTR). Osseous surgery is primarily a resective procedure; its goal is to reshape and recontour the bone to eliminate defects and reduce pocket depths. In contrast, guided tissue regeneration is a regenerative procedure designed to rebuild bone and attachment that has been lost. GTR involves placing bone graft material and a biocompatible membrane into the defect site, which acts as a barrier to prevent fast-growing soft tissue from filling the space, allowing the slower-growing bone and periodontal ligament to regenerate. The choice between resective osseous surgery and regenerative GTR depends on the type, shape, and severity of the bone defect. Dr. Yant evaluates each site individually and will discuss which approach, or combination of approaches, offers the best long-term outcome for your specific situation.