Pocket Reduction In San Jose, CA: What Patients Should Know

Pocket reduction in San Jose, CA, is a periodontal procedure that helps control gum disease by reducing the depth of spaces that form between teeth and gums. At My AZ Dental, this treatment is discussed as part of a broader plan to restore gum health and protect the bone that supports your teeth.

Pocket Reduction Explained

Healthy gums fit snugly around teeth. When plaque and calculus stay below the gumline, the supporting tissues become inflamed and detach, forming periodontal “pockets.” Deeper pockets trap more bacteria and make daily cleaning difficult. Pocket reduction surgery, sometimes called flap surgery, gently lifts the gum tissue to allow thorough cleaning of the roots and reshaping of the bone as needed. The goal is to create shallower, easier-to-clean areas so bacteria cannot thrive.

This procedure is often recommended when non-surgical care, such as scaling and root planing, cannot maintain pocket depths. Patients searching for what is pocket reduction surgery, how pocket reduction works, and the benefits of periodontal pocket reduction often want to know that the primary aim is disease control and long-term stability rather than cosmetic change.

Benefits Of Pocket Reduction

• Shallower pockets make brushing and flossing more effective at home.
• Thorough cleaning under direct vision lowers bacterial load and inflammation.
• Reshaping rough root and bone surfaces reduces places where plaque can hide.
• Stabilizing gum and bone health helps slow the progression of gum disease.
• Reduced bleeding and swelling can improve comfort and confidence in daily care.

How Pocket Reduction Works

The process begins with a comprehensive periodontal evaluation, including pocket measurements, X-rays, and a review of your medical history. Many patients first complete scaling and root planing; if pockets remain deep, surgery may be advised. Here is a typical sequence:

• Local Anesthesia: The area is numbed to keep you comfortable.
• Access: The gum is gently lifted to expose root surfaces and infected tissue.
• Debridement: Hardened tartar and inflamed tissue are removed under direct vision.
• Root Smoothing: Roots are planed to discourage bacterial re-attachment.
• Bone Shaping: Irregular bone may be reshaped to reduce future pocketing.
• Closure: Gums are positioned closer to the tooth and sutured in place.
• Protection: A dressing may be placed, and home care instructions are provided.

In select cases, regenerative materials may be recommended to encourage bone or tissue regrowth, depending on the defect shape and overall health.

What To Expect Before And After Surgery

Before the procedure, you will review medications, allergies, and health conditions. Tobacco use, diabetes control, and home hygiene are discussed because they influence healing. Most appointments last one to two hours per treated area. Local anesthesia is standard, and sedation may be considered when appropriate.

After surgery, mild soreness, swelling, and pinpoint bleeding are common for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers are often sufficient unless directed otherwise. A soft diet, careful brushing of untreated areas, and gentle cleaning of the surgical site as instructed help minimize irritation. Rinsing with a prescribed or recommended antimicrobial rinse may be part of your routine.

• Discomfort: Expect tenderness for several days, improving as tissues heal.
• Appearance: Gums may look slightly lower on the tooth, which is normal.
• Sensitivity: Temporary cold sensitivity can occur and usually improves over time.
• Follow-Up: Stitches are typically removed in one to two weeks, with ongoing evaluation of pocket depths.
• Maintenance: Periodontal maintenance visits every three to four months help keep pockets stable.

Risks include gum recession, tooth sensitivity, and changes in tooth appearance. These are balanced against the risk of ongoing bone loss if deep pockets remain. Many patients ask about scaling and root planing vs pocket reduction; non-surgical therapy is the first step, and surgery is considered when pockets stay too deep to keep clean.

Simple Next Steps

If you have questions about pocket reduction in San Jose, CA, or want to discuss your gum health, contact My AZ Dental at 408-295-1100. An evaluation can help you understand your treatment choices and next steps.