Periodontal Pocket Reduction

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Now that you know well what periodontal disease is and what it can do to our oral health, let’s take a look at the option of periodontal pocket reduction as our secondary and tertiary care.

This is a normally healthy mouth from daily brushing and flossing. The gum is light pink and fits snugly around the teeth. Once plague and tartar build up on the exposed surface of the teeth, the gums will become inflamed and start pulling away from the teeth, causing bacteria invested gum pockets like the image shown below.

Without treatment from a professional periodontist, tissue and even bone can be destroyed causing tooth loss.

The best way to treat severe periodontal disease, and you guessed it, is periodontal pocket reduction. Just like it sounds, this procedure reduces the size of pockets that form in the gums and reshapes tissue to fit more snugly around the teeth.

So how does periodontal pocket reduction work at David S. Kao DDS?

Dr. Kao is a well-known board certified periodontist and dental implant specialist serving in Downtown and greater Los Angeles for many years. He will remove bacteria and diseased gum tissues before starting the procedure. This allows the gums to reattach to a smooth surface.

Next, Dr. Kao will reshape remaining tissue so that it fits more securely around teeth and reduces the depth of pockets between the teeth and the gums. If bone loss is identified, a bone grafting procedure may be done.

Dr. Kao will complete the procedure by putting the gum tissue back in place and secure it with a few stiches or putty like substance so that it will heal rapidly and properly.

This easy and simply procedure can only be done by a professional with the right tools. If your dentist mentioned periodontal pocket reduction as an options, we will be happy to discuss the treatment plan with you and whether there are other treatments that are a better option. Feel free to give us a call at (213) 250-7554 or schedule an online appointment with us.