Patients who are in the advanced stages of periodontal disease may benefit from osseous surgery, also known as flap surgery. This procedure involves creating a flap of gum tissue around the area that needs to be treated and then lifting the gums for direct access to the bone. The procedure may be necessary when there is bone damage or bone loss and can effectively smooth out or build up the bone to promote healthy healing.

If you are in the early stages of gum disease, this form of treatment can reduce pocket depth around the teeth. Scaling and root planing helps keep gum disease from advancing and is often recommended as routine maintenance for patients with gum disease. It is performed under local anesthesia so that we can get below the gum line to remove bacteria and calculus buildup. Calculus below the gum line is removed using an ultrasonic tool. Dr. Kim may recommend a prescription-strength antimicrobial oral rinse after treatment.