When the bones that hold teeth in place needs to take on a different shape, a dentist will use Osseous surgery to accomplish the goal.

Why Procedure is Used

Osseous surgery is most often used to treat periodontitis. This is an advanced form of gum disease that causes holes and other deformities to develop in the bone that holds teeth in place. In many cases, Osseous surgery will be used to treat manage bone loss that has occurred around several teeth.

Patient Concerns to be Addressed

Before you can go for Osseous surgery you will need to have good oral hygiene. In some cases, your dentist may want to make use of root planing and scaling prior to the surgery.

How Is Procedure Performed?

Once your the area is numb from anaesthesia, your periodontist will open up the gum and separate it from the teeth. This provides access to the roots and bone material. Next, your periodontist will clean the roots, and then make use of a device similar to a dental drill to begin reshaping the bone. He/she may also use various hand instruments to create a proper shape. As may be expected, there will be less bone once the procedure is completed. Once the periodontist is satisfied that the bone is smooth and even, he/she will put the gums back in place and stitch them together.

Post-Operative Concerns

If you have pain after Osseous surgery, your dentist can give you painkillers. Ice packs can be used if you notice any swelling. Depending on your situation, you may also need to take antibiotics. When you notice swelling, excessive bleeding, or increased pain, you should call your periodontist.

As may be expected, it will be absolutely necessary to keep your mouth clean in order to allow the surgical site to heal properly. You will need to brush and floss other parts of your mouth. It may also be possible to gently brush the teeth at the surgical site if they are not covered with a periodontal bandage. Your dentist may also recommend using an antimicrobial rinse that contains chlorhexidine. Unfortunately, this rinse will not get rid of plaque. That said, it will kill off bacteria that might prevent your incision from healing.

In most cases, you will need to follow up with your periodontist in 7 – 10 days. You may also need to make a few more visits over the next few months in order to ensure that your mouth is healing correctly.

Perils of Disease

Even though some swelling and bleeding may be normal after surgery, they may also indicate the presence of an infection. In addition, you may also notice that your gums will recede as you get older. Unfortunately, teeth that were exposed to Osseous surgery may also develop root cavities, as well as temperature sensitivity.