Osseous Surgery and Its Impact on Tooth Longevity

At an advanced level, gum disease harms the bone structure supporting your teeth and the gums. At Periodontic Specialists by Solomon Dental, we offer Osseous Surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC, to restore oral health and preserve natural teeth for as long as possible. This surgical treatment is critical in managing severe gum disease and preventing tooth loss.

In this blog, we will explore Osseous Surgery, how it helps preserve teeth, who may benefit from it, what to expect during and after the procedure, and how Periodontic Specialists by Solomon Dental in Mount Pleasant, SC, can support long-term oral health.

What Is Osseous Surgery and Why Is It Performed?

Osseous Surgery, or flap surgery, is a gum disease treatment that Mount Pleasant patients can rely on when non-surgical procedures like scaling and root planing are no longer effective. This surgical approach removes bacteria and reshapes the bone around the teeth to eliminate deep pockets due to periodontal disease.

These pockets can harbor bacteria, leading to further infection, bone deterioration, and tooth loss. By smoothing the bone and allowing the gum tissue to reattach firmly to the teeth, Osseous Surgery reduces the chance of ongoing infection and improves oral stability.

The procedure may also serve as a preparatory step for other treatments, such as bone grafting in Mount Pleasant, SC, or even dental implants, by creating a healthier and more stable foundation.

How Osseous Surgery Improves Tooth Longevity

Preserving your natural teeth is always a priority. Here’s how osseous surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC, contributes to longer-lasting oral health:

1. Eliminates Harmful Bacteria

Plaque and germs can build up in deep gum pockets and are challenging to remove with routine brushing or expert cleanings. These bacteria lead to inflammation and ongoing bone loss. Osseous surgery interrupts the disease process by surgically accessing these areas and removing the infected tissue and bacteria.

2. Reshapes Damaged Bone

In advanced stages of gum disease, the bone around your teeth becomes uneven or jagged, making it hard for your gums to adhere properly. Osseous surgery smooths the bone, allowing the gums to heal closely around the teeth, reducing pocket depth and creating a more protective barrier against future infection.

3. Supports Gum Reattachment

Healthy gums need a secure place to anchor. After periodontal surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC, the cleaned and reshaped bone gives the gums a better surface to reattach to, which helps stabilize the teeth and reduces the chance of them becoming loose.

4. Prevents Future Tooth Loss

By controlling the spread of gum disease and restoring a healthier bone and gum environment, osseous surgery dramatically reduces the risk of tooth loss. With proper care after the procedure, many patients can retain their natural teeth for years.

When Is Osseous Surgery Recommended?

Not every patient with gum disease needs surgery. Typically, osseous surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC is recommended for those with:

• Moderate to severe periodontal disease
  
• Persistent deep gum pockets (greater than 5 mm)
  
• Bone loss is visible on dental X-rays
  
• Poor response to non-surgical treatment, like deep cleaning
  

Additionally, patients preparing for bone grafting in Mount Pleasant, SC, or dental implants may need osseous surgery to ensure the surrounding tissue is healthy enough to support further treatment.

What to Expect During Osseous Surgery

Understanding what happens during the procedure can help patients feel more comfortable and informed.

1. Before the Procedure

A complete dental evaluation, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, is completed to assess the severity of the gum disease and determine if osseous surgery is the best option. Your periodontist at Periodontic Specialists by Solomon Dental will review your medical history and discuss anesthesia options to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.

2. The Procedure Itself

• Local anesthesia is administered to numb the treatment area.
  
• The periodontist creates small incisions in the gums to expose the affected bone and tooth roots.
  
• Infected tissue and bacteria are carefully removed.
  
• The bone is reshaped to reduce defects and encourage proper gum reattachment.
  
• In cases with significant bone loss, bone grafting in Mount Pleasant, SC, may be performed simultaneously.
  
• The gums are repositioned and stitched into place.
  

3. Aftercare and Recovery

Most patients can return home the same day. Some mild discomfort, swelling, or bleeding is expected and can be managed with over-the-counter medication or antibiotics if prescribed.

Post-operative care instructions may include:

• Using a prescribed mouth rinse to reduce bacteria
  
• Eating soft foods for a few days
  
• Avoiding smoking or alcohol
  
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing
  

Patients typically see significant improvement in gum health within weeks, with complete healing taking several months, depending on the case.

Why Choose Periodontic Specialists by Solomon Dental?

When considering osseous surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC, patients need a team with experience and precision. At Periodontic Specialists by Solomon Dental, we are committed to providing individualized care using the latest techniques and technology.

Our approach includes:

• Thorough assessments to determine candidacy
  
• Customized treatment plans tailored to your oral health
  
• A focus on preserving your natural teeth
  
• Clear guidance for aftercare and maintenance
  
• Coordination with your general dentist for comprehensive support
  

Whether you’re experiencing the early signs of gum disease or have been dealing with long-term symptoms, we offer advanced gum treatment in Mount Pleasant that can make a lasting difference.

Conclusion: Protect Your Smile with Expert Periodontal Care

Osseous surgery in Mount Pleasant, SC, is more than a surgical procedure — it’s a critical step toward saving your natural teeth, restoring your gum health, and preventing further bone loss. It addresses the root causes of periodontal disease and gives your gums and bone a second chance to support a healthy smile.

If you’ve been told you have advanced gum disease or are struggling with chronic symptoms like bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, don’t wait to take action. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from diagnosis to recovery.

Schedule Your Osseous Surgery Consultation Today with Periodontal Associates, and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.