Pocket Reduction in Orange County, CA

When Pocket Reduction Therapy Is Recommended

Pocket reduction may be advised when non-surgical periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planing, are not enough to stop the progression of gum disease. It is commonly recommended for patients who have:

• Deep gum pockets that are difficult to clean with brushing or flossing
• Persistent inflammation or bleeding gums despite regular care
• Bone loss around the teeth caused by advanced periodontitis
• Recurrent gum infections or tenderness
• Loose teeth due to weakened gum attachment

By reducing the depth of these pockets, this procedure creates a healthier environment that’s easier to maintain with daily oral hygiene and professional cleanings.

How Pocket Reduction Works

1. Comprehensive Evaluation
   We begin by assessing gum health and measuring pocket depth using periodontal probes and digital X-rays.
2. Local Anesthesia
   The area is gently numbed to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
3. Accessing and Cleaning the Pockets
   A small flap of gum tissue is lifted to remove bacteria, calculus, and infected tissue beneath the gum line.
4. Smoothing and Contouring
   The root surfaces and underlying bone are smoothed to eliminate rough areas where bacteria can collect.
5. Tissue Repositioning and Suturing
   The gum tissue is carefully repositioned and sutured to fit snugly around the teeth, reducing pocket depth.
6. Post-Procedure Care
   After treatment, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent reinfection.

Benefits of Pocket Reduction Surgery

• Stops the progression of gum disease
• Reduces bacterial buildup and inflammation
• Prevents bone and tooth loss
• Makes brushing and flossing more effective
• Improves gum contour and overall oral comfort
• Supports the success of future dental implants or restorations

By removing infection and restoring healthy gum attachment, pocket reduction lays the foundation for long-term oral stability.

Recovery and Aftercare

Mild swelling or tenderness is common for a few days after the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Patients are encouraged to follow soft-food diets and gentle brushing routines as healing progresses. We’ll schedule a follow-up visit to monitor recovery and remove sutures if necessary.

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending regular periodontal cleanings are key to preventing recurrence.

Integrating Gum Health into Comprehensive Care

Pocket reduction is often part of a complete periodontal and restorative plan to preserve oral health and prevent future complications. At Perfect Smile Dental Care, we may combine this treatment with:

• Scaling and Root Planing for deep cleaning before or after surgery
• Laser Gum Therapy to target bacteria non-invasively
• Bone Grafting for patients with significant bone loss

Our goal is to restore a healthy, stable foundation for your teeth while ensuring your comfort at every stage.

Serving Patients Across Orange County

Perfect Smile Dental Care proudly provides advanced gum treatments like pocket reduction therapy for patients throughout Anaheim, Irvine, Cypress, Tustin, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Garden Grove. We also welcome patients from out of state seeking expert periodontal care while visiting Southern California.