Osseous surgery is a deep cleaning treatment of the teeth. It should not be confused with the more common deep teeth cleaning. Osseous surgery eliminates tartar that daily oral hygiene and conventional deep teeth cleaning by a professional hygienist cannot adequately remove. Plaque and tartar accumulate over time where the toothbrush, interdental brush, and dental floss cannot reach.
If the accumulations are not removed, periodontal disease occurs. If tartar and plaque formation are not treated in time, they compromise the structures of the periodontium, that is, the tooth's support system, made up of the bone, the gums, and the periodontal ligament that surrounds the tooth. Over time, tartar damages the bone support of the tooth with the formation of subgingival pockets, which can result in tooth loss.
When is osseous surgery indicated?
Osseous surgery is recommended when there is a substantial buildup of tartar under the gums. This will effectively cleanse gum pockets and is essential for treating the symptoms of periodontitis (bleeding and swelling of the gums, bad breath) and keeping the progression of the disease under control, thus preventing tooth loss.
It is, therefore, essential to seek the opinion of a specialist as soon as you notice swelling and bleeding gums. In this way, you can intervene promptly to counteract the worsening of periodontitis and prevent the pockets already present from worsening. Precisely because osseous surgery is a particular form of cleaning, it is the specialist who decides whether it is appropriate to perform it.
How is surgical curettage done?
Before proceeding with osseous surgery, we will examine your mouth to identify the areas that need intervention. Once this is done, we will proceed to administer local anesthesia, which is necessary to be able to work under your gums without you feeling any type of pain or discomfort. Afterwards, we start the actual cleaning phase, in which the gums are surgically opened, and the pockets are cleaned using manual instruments called curettes. By using these instruments, the surface of the tooth root and under the gum, which was exposed inside the pockets and was contaminated by the accumulation of tartar and bacteria, is cleaned.
The duration of the osseous surgery varies depending on the case, and usually, more sessions are necessary, most often in the number of four, lasting about 1 hour each. The frequency with which to undergo osseous surgery is also variable and must be defined by the specialist.
How much does osseous surgery cost?
The cost of osseous surgery will depend on several factors, including how many teeth are affected and need to be cleaned and how many sessions you may need. Osseous surgery can cost anywhere from $500 to upwards of $10,000, depending on your location and the severity of your case. This cost does not include any exams and X-rays you may need beforehand or any anesthesia or aftercare that is indicated. It is best to talk to your dentist and know the costs upfront. You can also talk to your dentist about any payment options they may have. Insurance may cover much of this cost, so you will need to speak with your insurance provider as well to see if osseous surgery is covered.
If you have bad breath or swollen and bleeding gums, it is best to contact us today to discover what is going on, especially if it has been a while since you have had your teeth professionally cleaned. Call us now to find out how we can help the health of your mouth and smile!