Osseous Surgery

When gum disease goes unchecked, it doesn’t just irritate the surface—it begins to reshape the bone beneath your gums. That bone supports every tooth in your mouth, so when it’s compromised, so is the stability of your entire smile. That’s where osseous surgery comes in.

This procedure isn’t about cosmetic tweaks—it’s about function, health, and preservation. As periodontists, we use osseous surgery in Cupertino CA and San Francisco CA to carefully clean, contour, and strengthen the bone structure so your gums and teeth have a better foundation to thrive.

---

What Is Osseous Surgery?

At its core, osseous surgery is a procedure that removes harmful bacteria and reshapes damaged bone caused by advanced periodontal disease. Also called “flap surgery,” it gives us the access we need to reach deep areas that brushing, flossing, and even deep cleanings can’t touch.

The process involves:

• Lifting the gum tissue for a clear view of the roots and bone
• Removing plaque, tartar, and infected tissue
• Smoothing irregular bone surfaces
• Repositioning the gums to reduce pocket depth and improve healing

It’s one of the most effective ways to halt disease progression and give your mouth a fresh start.

---

Why Bone Contouring Matters

When gum disease causes bone loss, it doesn’t happen evenly. The bone develops craters and rough edges that make it easy for bacteria to settle and hard for you to keep clean. That’s why reshaping the bone isn’t just a cosmetic step—it’s a critical one.

By evening out those surfaces, we reduce the areas where harmful bacteria can hide. This not only helps your gums heal but also lowers the risk of reinfection and improves the success of future treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants.

---

Who Is a Good Candidate for Osseous Surgery?

You don’t need pain to have periodontal problems. In fact, many patients feel fine—until their dentist or periodontist uncovers deep gum pockets or bone loss during an exam.

You may benefit from osseous surgery if you:

• Have deep periodontal pockets (typically over 5mm)
• Show signs of bone deterioration on X-rays
• Have tried non-surgical treatments with limited results
• Experience ongoing gum inflammation
• Want to prevent tooth loss due to structural bone damage

After evaluating your condition, we’ll walk you through whether this procedure is the best next step for you.

---

What to Expect Before, During, and After

Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia, and we offer options to keep you comfortable every step of the way. The entire process is typically done in one session per affected area, depending on how many sites are involved.

After surgery, you can expect mild soreness or swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter medication and a soft-food diet for a few days. We'll also provide detailed instructions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.

And the best part? Patients often feel a noticeable improvement in gum health, cleanliness, and comfort within weeks.

---

Long-Term Benefits of Osseous Surgery

This treatment isn’t a temporary fix—it’s a long-term investment in your oral health. With proper maintenance, osseous surgery can lead to:

• Reduced gum pocket depth
• Stronger gum-to-tooth attachment
• Improved oral hygiene access
• Lower risk of further bone and tissue loss
• Better support for natural teeth and future restorations

It’s about giving your mouth a fighting chance against advanced periodontal disease—and setting the stage for lasting results.

---

Let’s Restore Your Smile from the Inside Out

Osseous surgery may sound clinical, but at its heart, it’s a procedure built on precision, preservation, and prevention. By restoring the natural shape of your bone, we create a healthier environment that’s easier to maintain and far more resistant to future disease.

Ready to take control of your gum and bone health?

Let’s talk about whether osseous surgery is the right step for you. Schedule your consultation in Cupertino CA or San Francisco CA today at Lee Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Periodontics and take the first step toward rebuilding your smile—from the foundation up.