OSSEOUS SURGERY

Pocket Reduction Surgery

Sometimes the effects of periodontal disease create permanent changes in the tooth and gum structure that will cause issues in the future. Enlarged gum pockets between the tooth and the gum line are common after having advanced gum disease. Sometimes these gaps are cosmetic in nature, and affect the appearance of the gums. More commonly, the gaps put the teeth at future risk for tooth and gum disease, as they are just one more place that plaque and bacteria can collect. Pocket reduction surgery is designed to thwart the after effects of periodontal disease and restore your mouth to a healthy state.

The goal of periodontal surgery to gain access to the tooth root and to clean the damaged areas. Once the dentist can visually see the damage, it can be removed completely. Removing the plaque and decayed gum tissue leaves a pocket between the gum and the tooth. Sometimes the gum returns to its original position, but still the pocket is present. The pocket requires more frequent cleanings as the patient is unable to get to the pockets with regular brushing and flossing. Once the swelling from the periodontal treatment has subsided, the dentist may need to suture the gum to where the bone has resorbed. The goal is to create a space large enough so it can be reached through daily oral hygiene, but small enough that it is not a breeding ground for plaque and bacteria.

Esthetic Crown Lengthening

Esthetic crown lengthening reshapes excess gum tissue to reveal more of your natural tooth structure. If your teeth appear short or you have a “gummy” smile, this procedure can create a more balanced, proportionate appearance—often in just one visit.

By carefully repositioning the gum line, we enhance your smile while also improving access for proper oral hygiene and long-term gum health.

Benefits:

More attractive, balanced smile
Immediate visible results
Improved confidence
Minimal discomfort and quick healing

Connective Tissue Grafting for Root Coverage

When gum recession exposes the root surface, teeth may appear longer and become sensitive to hot or cold. Connective tissue grafting is the gold standard procedure to restore lost gum tissue and protect the roots.

A small amount of donor tissue—typically from the palate—is placed over the exposed area to strengthen and thicken the gum tissue.

Benefits:

Reduced sensitivity
Improved esthetics
Protection against further recession
Long-lasting, predictable results

Soft Tissue Ridge Augmentation

After tooth loss, the supporting bone and gum tissue may shrink, creating a visible depression in the ridge. Ridge augmentation rebuilds this area to allow replacement teeth—such as bridges—to emerge naturally from the gums.

Using donor tissue (and sometimes additional grafting materials), we restore proper contour and symmetry for a more natural-looking result.

Benefits:

Restores natural gum contours
Improves appearance of dental bridges
Prevents food trapping
Creates harmonious smile proportions

Pinhole Surgical Technique

The Pinhole Surgical Technique is a minimally invasive alternative for treating gum recession. Instead of traditional grafting, a small pinhole opening is made in the gum tissue, allowing it to be gently repositioned over the exposed root.

No scalpels or sutures are typically required.

Benefits: