What Is Pocket Reduction Surgery?
Pocket Reduction surgery is a component of Periodontal Surgery that involves removing diseased and unsupportive tissue to physically reduce probing depths. Occasionally, this involves bone (osseous) recontouring to allow for the tissue to sit intimately against the bone.
Also known as flap surgery or pocket elimination surgery, is a key component of periodontal therapy aimed at treating advanced gum disease (periodontitis). The goal of this procedure is to reduce the depth of periodontal pockets—spaces that form between the teeth and gums as a result of the loss of supporting bone and soft tissue due to bacterial infection and inflammation. These pockets can become breeding grounds for bacteria, which can further accelerate tissue and bone destruction if left untreated. By performing pocket reduction surgery, the periodontist or oral surgeon removes the infected tissue and reshapes the gums and underlying bone to reduce the depth of the pockets, making it easier for the patient to maintain proper oral hygiene and improve the long-term prognosis of their oral health.
During pocket reduction surgery, the dentist or periodontist typically makes incisions in the gum tissue to create a "flap" that is lifted away from the teeth and bone. This provides access to the underlying infected tissue, which is then carefully removed. Diseased and unsupportive tissue, including inflamed gums and any granulation tissue (excess tissue that forms during the body’s healing process), is thoroughly cleaned and excised. In some cases, the periodontist will also need to remove portions of the infected bone to ensure that the area is free of infection and to promote proper reattachment of the gums. Once the diseased tissue has been removed, the gums are carefully repositioned and sutured back into place. This procedure reduces the pocket depth, allowing the gums to reattach more closely to the tooth surface, which in turn reduces the space where bacteria can accumulate.
