Osseous SurgeryPalm Beach Gardens, FL
If you have been told you need gum surgery, it is normal to feel anxious about what that means. Osseous surgery is a well-established procedure that gives your teeth a real chance to stay healthy. We perform osseous surgery at our Palm Beach Gardens office to help patients throughout Palm Beach County stop the progression of advanced gum disease, and we also see patients at our Loxahatchee office. If your general dentist has referred you to us, this page will walk you through what to expect.
What You Need to Know
Osseous surgery is also called pocket reduction surgery or periodontal flap surgery. It is used when gum disease has caused deep pockets to form between the teeth and gums. Those pockets trap bacteria that a regular cleaning cannot reach. Left untreated, the bacteria continue breaking down the bone and tissue holding your teeth in place.
Osseous surgery gives us direct access to clean those areas thoroughly, reshape the bone, and eliminate the places where bacteria accumulate. It is typically recommended after non-surgical periodontal treatment has been tried and the pockets have not improved.
Who needs osseous surgery?
You may be a candidate if you have been diagnosed with moderate to advanced periodontitis and have one or more of the following:
- Deep periodontal pockets that did not improve after a deep cleaning
- Bone loss visible on X-rays
- Persistent bleeding, swelling, or infection that has not responded to other treatments
- Loose teeth from deteriorating bone support
- Gum recession exposing the roots of your teeth
Patients who want to avoid traditional surgery can ask us about LANAP laser gum therapy. We offer both and will recommend the right option based on your specific case.
The osseous surgery procedure
Before the procedure
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so you will be comfortable throughout. If you have dental anxiety, we have sedation options available. Our team will review your health history and answer every question before your appointment.
During the procedure
- We gently fold the gum tissue back to access the tooth root and bone
- We thoroughly remove bacteria, tartar, and infected tissue from the root surfaces
- The bone is smoothed and reshaped to eliminate pockets where bacteria collect
- The gum tissue is repositioned and sutured into place
Appointment length depends on how many teeth are involved. We will give you a time estimate at your consultation.
Recovery and aftercare
Mild soreness and swelling for the first few days are normal. Most patients manage comfortably with over-the-counter pain relievers. We will give you detailed post-operative instructions covering diet, oral rinsing, and activity, and your periodontist will tell you when your sutures will be removed.
What recovery looks like
- The first few days — Mild to moderate soreness and swelling. Soft foods recommended.
- The following week — Discomfort eases for most patients. Eating and speaking become more comfortable.
- Suture removal — Your gum tissue begins tightening around the teeth.
- Longer term — Full tissue healing, with pocket depths reassessed at your follow-up.
After osseous surgery, we place you on a periodontal maintenance schedule to monitor healing and help prevent recurrence.
Osseous surgery compared to LANAP
We offer both traditional osseous surgery and LANAP for advanced gum disease.
Osseous surgery provides direct access to the affected areas. LANAP uses a specialized laser to remove diseased tissue without cutting or suturing, and recovery is faster for the right candidates.
During your consultation we will evaluate your condition and walk you through which approach makes the most sense for your case.
Frequently asked questions
How painful is osseous surgery?
The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so most patients feel little to nothing during treatment. Soreness afterward is usually mild. Sedation is available if you are anxious.
How much does osseous surgery cost?
Cost depends on how many areas are treated. We provide a detailed estimate at your consultation. To discuss coverage and payment, see our insurance and financing information or ask our team.
Will osseous surgery save my teeth?
By removing the bacterial environment causing bone destruction, osseous surgery gives your teeth a more stable foundation and works to stop the disease from progressing. Your periodontist will discuss the likely outcome for your specific case at your consultation.
Is osseous surgery the same as LANAP?
No. Osseous surgery uses incisions and sutures. LANAP is a minimally invasive, scalpel-free alternative. We offer both at our Palm Beach Gardens practice.
How long before I can return to normal activities?
This depends on how much treatment was done and how your healing progresses. We will give you specific guidance before you leave our office.
Contact Us
We treat patients from Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Jupiter, Wellington, Loxahatchee, and throughout Palm Beach County. If you have advanced gum disease and need to understand your options, we are here to help. We will review your condition, answer your questions, and build a treatment plan designed to protect your teeth.
Rafael E. Cordero, DDS PA is located at
3345 Burns Rd #203
Palm Beach Gardens, FL
33410.
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