About Pocket Reduction Surgery
Between your teeth and gums, there is a natural space. In a healthy mouth, this space is shallow. However, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) causes these “pockets” to deepen, creating a haven for bacteria that you can’t reach with a toothbrush.
Pocket Reduction Surgery (also known as osseous surgery) is a specialized procedure performed by our periodontists to clear out deep-seated bacteria and snug the gum tissue back against the teeth.
Why it matters: If these pockets are left untreated, they continue to deepen, eventually leading to bone loss and tooth extractions.
Do you need pocket reduction surgery?
Patients are often referred to us when “deep cleanings” (scaling and root planing) aren’t enough to manage their gum health. You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent bad breath or a metallic taste.
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
- Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth.
- Pockets measuring 5mm or deeper during your dental exam.
The Process: What to expect?
We believe an informed patient is a comfortable patient. Here is how our specialists at Bucks County Periodontics handle your care:
- Consultation: We use digital imaging to assess the depth of the pockets and the health of the underlying bone.
- Cleaning: Under local anesthesia, the gum tissue is gently folded back to remove disease-causing bacteria and hardened tartar.
- Smoothing: If the root surface is irregular, we smooth it out to ensure the gum tissue can reattach securely.
- Recovery: The gums are secured with tiny sutures. Most patients return to their normal routine within a day or two.
Why Bucks County Periodontics?
When it comes to your oral health, experience matters. Our team focuses exclusively on periodontics and dental implants, offering a level of specialization you won’t find at a general dental office.
- Local Expertise: With offices in Bensalem and Richboro, we are your neighbors.
- Patient Comfort: We offer modern sedation options to ensure your procedure is entirely pain-free.
- Long-term Success: Our goal isn't just a successful surgery; it's providing you the tools and maintenance plan to keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does pocket reduction surgery hurt?
We prioritize your comfort. The area is thoroughly numbed with local anesthesia. Most patients describe the post-operative feeling as a mild soreness that is easily managed with over-the-counter medication.
How long is the recovery?
Most patients feel "back to normal" within 48 to 72 hours. We provide specific aftercare instructions to ensure your healing is fast and uncomplicated.
Will my insurance cover this?
Many dental insurance plans cover periodontal surgery as a necessary medical procedure. Our office team is happy to help you navigate your benefits.
Discover the Bucks County Periodontics Difference
Expert Periodontal Care
With over 30 years of experience, we specialize in periodontal therapy, dental implants and periodontal regeneration for optimal oral health.
Personalized Treatment
Dr. Ryan Kaye and our skilled team prioritize understanding your unique concerns, questions, and goals to tailor treatment plans accordingly.
Patient Empowerment
Dr. Kaye educates patients about periodontal disease, treatment options, and oral health maintenance, empowering them to make informed decisions.
Insurance Friendly
We accept various insurance plans and ensure accessibility to quality periodontal care for a wide range of patients seeking cost effective options.
Comprehensive Service
From periodontal therapy to dental implants, our practice offers a full spectrum of services addressing complex dental issues and improving overall wellbeing.
2 Convenient Locations
BCP is highly-accessible. Visit us at our Bensalem office—just off of the Street Road exit of I-95—or our Richboro office—just minutes from Route 1 and the PA Turnpike.
Word on the Street
Read some of our hundreds of five-star reviews on Google.
Dr. Kaye is very professional, thorough and efficient. He explains the procedure in a way that is very easy to understand. The office staff are super nice and friendly.
Kelsi Y.
on Google
Dr. Kaye and his staff were amazing today. Patient. Kind. Understanding. And never once made me feel awkward about my phobia. Infact, it was quite the opposite – I actually felt safe! And not once did I feel rushed.
Donna M.
on Google
Staff is always very professional and accommodating, as well as, friendly, courteous and nice! I’ve been going there for years.
Terrence D.
on Google
What a positive experience! The staff all were so kind and thoughtful. Dr. Kaye was very thorough and explained things so well. We were very happy with our visit!
Candyce K
on Google
My experience at Bucks County Periodontics was amazing, the front desk girls Tammy and Tara were so kind, and helpful… Dr. Kaye was gentle and made me feel at ease. I would highly recommend this place.
Heather B.
on Google
Fantastic customer service at the front end of the well organized clean office. Dr Ryan Kaye is a real gem kind caring and confident!
Margaret M.
on Google
Highly highly recommend Dr. Kaye and his team. The front office staff is superb and very friendly as well. Hats off to Bucks County Periodontics.
Tyler V.
on Google
Very pleased with Bucks County Periodontics and will refer them to my family and friends.
Jackie R.
on Google
Awesome practice. Dr. Kaye is extremely knowledgeable and personable. Very patient. The staff is warm and courteous. I would highly recommend this practice.
Judy Y.
on Google