What Should I do About My Periodontal Pockets?

If you notice your gums are inflamed or receding, you may be wondering what procedures are available to help shrink periodontal pockets. When gums are loose and no longer fit snug around your teeth, this can cause bacteria and plaque to collect underneath the gums. This can cause severe damage to your gums and teeth, and if not treated can result in unstable teeth, or even tooth loss.

At this point brushing and flossing can not reach the bacteria that is deep down in the infected pockets of your gums, and you need to contact a periodontist. There are a few different procedures available to help shrink or fix periodontal pockets and prevent bacteria or plaque from collecting in the future.

What Treatments Are Available to Treat Periodontal Pockets?

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing helps to deep clean in and around the periodontal pockets. This procedure removes the plaque and bacteria on the tooth and underneath the gum line. Scaling and root planing helps to shrink periodontal pockets and can heal gum tissue. This treatment prevents further infection, and keeps your teeth and gums looking and feeling great. After scaling and root planing most patients notice their gums recede less, and they are restored.

Gingival Flap Surgery

Gingival flap surgery is when the gum tissue is folded back and the diseased tissue is removed. The gum is then secured back into place, and the area is smoothed out to prevent bacteria from entering in the future.

Gingivectomy

This procedure removes overgrown tissue around your teeth by cutting it away. This can help patients clean their teeth easier, and stops bacteria from collecting in the gums.

Gingivoplasty

A gingivoplasty procedure helps to reshape gum tissue around the teeth. During this procedure gum grafts can be used, and stitched into place where the gums have receded.

The treatment needed will depend on the severity of the patient’s periodontal pockets. During our consultation process we perform a detailed evaluation and develop a customized treatment plan. Our doctors will discuss the recommended treatment, and talk to the patient about all of their options to treat their periodontal pockets. Treating gum disease is very important, and can save you a lot of trouble in the future.

At Orange County Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we have years of experience in periodontics, and love to help patients restore their gums and smile. Let our team help you take that first step towards healthier gums with one of our periodontal gum treatments.

Interested in Finding Out More About Periodontal Pocket Treatment Options?

If you are interested in finding out how periodontal pocket treatments can benefit you, please contact Orange County Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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