Osseous Surgery
Charlotte, NC
 Your oral bones serve a very important function in your mouth, helping to keep your teeth in place. However, over time, bone loss may become evident in some individuals. There are many different reasons that bone loss in your jaw may occur, and once it advances, it can cause lasting damage in your mouth. We here at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery understand how vital it is to not only help our patients prevent complications from bone loss but also how to treat it once it progresses.
What Causes Bone Loss in the Mouth?
Bone loss in your mouth can occur for a variety of reasons. One of the more common causes of oral bone loss is due to periodontitis, which is an advanced form of gum disease. Poor dental alignment can also lead to bone loss. Tooth loss is also a leading cause of bone loss in the mouth, as the presence of teeth stimulate the bone and encourage it to remain present. Finally, tumors can lead to bone loss by affecting the bone. Once the tumor is removed, bone may need to be removed, as well. This falls under common periodontal treatments and maintenance.
How is Osseous Surgery Performed?
Before your osseous surgery, we will need to ensure that the teeth are clean and ready for the procedure. We will prepare the site by performing a scaling and root planing before the surgery. This removes any hardened tartar that can form along the gumline.
Before we begin, we will numb the surgical site with a local anesthetic (typically lidocaine). This will help ensure that the patient does not experience discomfort during the procedure. We will then place an incision at the affected site, which will expose the bone beneath the gums. The bone material will then be reshaped with our specialized surgical tools. While bone may be removed, we may also be applying a bone graft to the site to help reinforce areas of greater deficit. The gums will then be sutured shut.
Aftercare
After your procedure, we will place a periodontal pack at the surgical site. Avoid brushing and flossing around the dressing. However, you will need to continue to practice good oral hygiene after your procedure. Your other teeth will need to be brushed and flossed as usual. We may prescribe a specific type of mouthwash called chlorhexidine, which can be used to help slow the formation of plaque on your teeth.
Discomfort can be expected after your procedure. If you find that you are experiencing any discomfort afterward, we may prescribe you medication to help relieve any associated pain. A cold compress can help provide relief. We may also prescribe antibiotics. Excessive pain, bleeding, or any signs of infection can be a sign of a complication and need to be addressed immediately.
If you are determined to require osseous surgery, it is understandable to have questions about this procedure. We here at Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery are more than happy to take the time to explain every step of this procedure to you. For more information, or to set up an appointment with us, please give us a call at (980) 332-7990 today. |
