Periodontal Osseous Surgery

When gum disease advances beyond what scaling and root planing can resolve, the bone underneath begins to deteriorate — and that destruction doesn’t stop on its own. Periodontal osseous surgery is a precise, highly effective procedure designed to eliminate the deep bacterial pockets that form around teeth, reshape damaged bone, and create an environment where healing can finally take hold. For patients facing moderate to severe periodontitis, this treatment can be the difference between saving their teeth and losing them.

At Rockland Dental Specialists, our periodontists and implant specialists bring over 24 years of combined experience to every procedure, including periodontal osseous surgery. Led by board-certified periodontist Dr. Shalom Mintz and the skilled team at our periodontics practice, we are committed to delivering precision care that protects your long-term oral health — with the compassion and comfort-focused environment our patients have come to rely on.

What Is Periodontal Osseous Surgery?

Periodontal osseous surgery, also referred to as pocket reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to access and clean the roots of teeth and reshape the underlying bone affected by periodontal disease. When gum disease progresses to an advanced stage, pockets form between the teeth and gums — spaces where bacteria thrive and where standard cleaning tools simply cannot reach. Left untreated, these pockets deepen, and the bone that anchors your teeth begins to break down.

During the procedure, the gum tissue is gently folded back to allow direct access to the roots and bone. Dr. Mintz and our team thoroughly remove calculus and bacterial deposits, then carefully reshape any irregular bone surfaces — a process called osseous recontouring. This smoothing of the bone eliminates the nooks and crannies where bacteria can re-accumulate, making it far easier to maintain the area going forward. The gums are then sutured back into place at a level that reduces pocket depth and promotes healing.

Who Is a Candidate for This Procedure?

Not every patient with gum disease requires osseous surgery. However, for those with pocket depths that cannot be effectively managed through non-surgical means, it becomes a necessary and highly valuable intervention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of adults aged 30 and older in the United States have some form of periodontal disease, making conditions like this far more common than most people realize. Our team conducts a thorough evaluation to determine whether osseous surgery is the most appropriate course of treatment for your specific case.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment

Before Your Procedure

Prior to osseous surgery, our team will review your full periodontal history, take updated X-rays, and discuss what the procedure involves in detail. We want every patient to feel fully informed and at ease before treatment begins. Many patients also complete a course of oral hygiene therapy prior to surgery to reduce inflammation and optimize surgical outcomes.

During the Procedure

Osseous surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia in our Rockland, New York office. The length of the procedure depends on the number of teeth being treated and the extent of bone involvement. Our high-end office is designed to maximize your comfort throughout, with a welcoming team that prioritizes a calm, stress-free experience from check-in to checkout.

After Your Procedure

Recovery from periodontal osseous surgery is generally well-tolerated, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days. Your first follow-up appointment will typically take place within two weeks of your procedure, with a second visit around eight to ten weeks post-surgery. For the first year following treatment, we typically schedule follow-up visits every three months to closely monitor your healing and ensure the gum tissue is responding as expected. After that first year, many patients can alternate between visits with our office and their general dentist on a three-month rotation.

Why Choose Rockland Dental Specialists?

Choosing the right provider for periodontal surgery is one of the most important decisions you can make for your oral health. Our team at Rockland Dental Specialists includes board-certified periodontist Dr. Shalom Mintz, as well as periodontist Dr. David Peto, who bring focused, specialized expertise to each case — not a generalist approach. We also offer dental implant solutions for patients who ultimately require tooth replacement, allowing us to manage your care comprehensively under one roof.

We accept most major insurance plans and offer complimentary insurance verifications, as well as custom payment plans to ensure treatment is accessible to every patient. Our 24/7 availability means you are never left without guidance when a concern arises. Whether you are coming in for a consultation or for surgery, our team delivers the same standard: expert care, real compassion, and a commitment to your lasting health.

Take the Next Step With Rockland Dental Specialists

If you have been told you need periodontal surgery — or if you have been experiencing symptoms like bleeding gums, loose teeth, or persistent bad breath — now is the time to seek a specialist’s opinion. Our team is ready to evaluate your condition and walk you through every option available to you. Learn more about our providers and their credentials on our about page, and see what our patients have experienced firsthand at our patient experiences page.

When you are ready to take the next step toward a healthier smile, we are here for you. Contact our office to schedule your consultation with Rockland Dental Specialists today — and get the specialized, compassionate care your gum health deserves.