Welcome to ROC Perio & Implants, the premier periodontal practice serving Rochester, NY and all of Monroe County. Our specialized team of periodontists is dedicated to helping our patients treat gum disease and maintain healthy teeth for life. If you are struggling with advanced periodontal disease and are looking for top-tier gum surgery in Rochester, we provide the advanced, minimally invasive care you need to restore your oral health.

What is Gum Surgery?

Gum surgery is a specialized dental procedure that involves removing diseased or infected gum tissue to promote healing and prevent further damage to the gums and surrounding teeth. This surgical procedure is typically performed when non-surgical treatments, such as deep cleaning or scaling and root planing, are not enough to effectively treat gum disease. By removing the bacteria and diseased tissue, we can halt bone loss and help you keep your natural teeth.

Who is a Candidate for Gum Surgery?

Individuals with moderate to severe gum disease are generally good candidates for gum surgery. If you have an exposed tooth root or excessive gum tissue, our team at ROC Perio & Implants in Rochester, NY can evaluate your mouth to help determine if a surgical approach is the right option for you.

How is Gum Surgery Performed?

At ROC Perio & Implants in Rochester, NY, we perform gum surgery utilizing the latest surgical techniques and state-of-the-art technology. The procedure typically involves making small, precise incisions in the gum tissue to remove any infected or diseased tissue. We also carefully reshape the gums to support better oral hygiene and a more aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking smile.

In some cases, a soft tissue graft or gum graft may be necessary to cover an exposed tooth root. During a tissue graft, healthy tissue may be taken from the palate or another donor source, and transplanted over an area of recession. This process improves the support of the tooth, and can improve aesthetics significantly.

What is Pocket Reduction Treatment?

Pocket reduction treatment, also known as osseous surgery, is a common periodontal procedure that involves removing infected tissue and reshaping the remaining gum tissue to reduce the depth of periodontal pockets. When gum disease is left untreated, the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, creating deep pockets where harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar accumulate. By reducing the pocket depth, we can stop the active infection and prevent the progression of periodontal disease.

Why is Pocket Reduction Surgery Important?

Pocket reduction treatment is critically important for individuals who are experiencing pain, inflammation, or discomfort due to advanced gum disease. The procedure helps to thoroughly clean the tooth roots and remove the bacteria hidden deep beneath the gum line. By actively reducing the depth of periodontal pockets, you create an environment where healthy gums can reattach to the teeth. This not only helps prevent future tooth loss but also improves your overall systemic health, reducing your risk of conditions linked to untreated gum disease, like heart disease.

What Happens During a Pocket Reduction Appointment?

At our clinic in Rochester, NY, pocket reduction treatment appointments typically involve gently pulling back the soft tissue to access the roots of the teeth. We thoroughly clean and smooth the tooth roots, remove the infected tissue, and carefully reshape the remaining gum and bone to reduce pocket depth. The procedure may be performed using traditional surgical instruments or advanced laser dentistry methods, depending on your unique needs.

Is the Surgical Procedure Painful?

Both general gum surgery and pocket reduction treatment are typically not painful. We perform these procedures using local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort and ensure you are entirely relaxed. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the surgery is complete, but this is typically short-lived and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Recovery After Gum Surgery

Most patients experience only minor swelling and discomfort following gum grafting surgery or pocket reduction, and they are able to return to their normal activities within a few days. The healing process is generally very straightforward. Our highly trained team at ROC Perio & Implants will provide you with clear, step-by-step post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

The results of your treatment are typically long-lasting, provided you maintain proper oral hygiene at home with regular brushing and flossing, and attend your scheduled follow-up visits and periodontal maintenance cleanings.

Frequently Asked Questions