Osseous Surgery in Washington, DC & Bethesda, MD
When gum disease (periodontitis) progresses, it causes deep pockets to form between the gums and teeth. These pockets trap bacteria that can’t be removed with brushing, flossing, or even cleanings. These pockets trap bacteria, which can lead to bone loss, gum recession, and eventually tooth loss. Osseous surgery (also called pocket reduction surgery or periodontal bone surgery) treats these areas by removing bacteria, reshaping the bone, and helping the gums reattach firmly to the teeth.
At District Dental Surgery, our periodontists specialize in restoring the health and structure of your gums and bone using advanced techniques and a gentle, patient-centered approach.
What is Osseous Surgery?
Osseous surgery is a periodontal procedure used to treat advanced gum disease. During the procedure, our periodontists gently lift the gum tissue, remove bacteria, and reshape the bone around teeth to reduce deep periodontal pockets and promote better gum attachment. When periodontal disease has damaged the bone around your teeth, simply cleaning below the gum line may not be enough. Osseous surgery addresses the bone loss directly, making it a powerful option in appropriate cases.
When gum disease is left untreated, plaque and tartar build up below the gums, destroying the supporting bone. This procedure allows your periodontist to access and clean those areas directly, remove diseased tissue, and smooth the bone to create a healthier, more even surface where your gums can reattach.
Is Osseous Surgery Right for You?
Osseous surgery may be recommended if:
You have deep periodontal pockets that cannot be cleaned with scaling and root planing alone.
There is bone loss visible on dental X-rays.
Your gums bleed or swell easily or have started to recede.
You have loose teeth caused by bone damage from gum disease.
If you’ve been diagnosed with moderate to severe periodontitis, osseous surgery can help stop further damage and preserve your natural teeth.
The Benefits of Osseous Surgery:
- Stops the progression of gum disease: Restores gum health and reduces inflammation
- Reduces pocket depths: By smoothing and reshaping bone, we can reduce deep pockets that harbor bacteria
- Better gum–to–tooth attachment: Helps gums reattach more tightly to teeth
- Improves long-term stability: When combined with good oral hygiene, it helps reduce disease recurrence
- Prevents tooth loss: By controlling bone damage, this surgery supports preserving natural teeth
At District Dental Surgery, our periodontists use modern techniques and precise instrumentation to minimize invasiveness, discomfort, and healing time.
The Osseous Surgery Procedure (Step by Step):
1. Comfort & Numbing
Performed under local anesthesia, meaning the treatment area will be numb.
2. Access & Cleaning
Gums are gently lifted to access the roots and bone to remove the bacteria and tartar.
3. Reshaping (if needed)
The damaged bone and/or gum may be smoothed and reshaped to reduce spaces where bacteria can grow.
4. Gum Repositioning
Gums are placed snugly around the teeth, reducing pockets and protecting bone.
What's the Recovery for Osseous Surgery?
We will provide you with detailed post-op instructions. Mild soreness, swelling, or sensitivity for a few days is normal and easily managed with medication. Soft diet for a few days and avoid any trauma in the treated area. Stitches may be placed and removed in about 1–2 weeks. Regular follow-up visits and periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months to protect the results.
Common Questions about Osseous Surgery:
1. Does Osseous Surgery Hurt?
No. The area is numbed so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure; most patients report little to no discomfort.
2. How is Osseous Surgery Different From a Deep Cleaning (SRP)?
Scaling & Root Planing treats moderate gum disease, but if pockets are too deep, SRP can’t reach the bacteria. Osseous surgery is the next step to access and clean these areas.
3. What Happens If I Don’t Treat My Gum Disease? Can This Surgery Save My Teeth?
Without treatment, gum disease continues to destroy bone and tissue, leading to loose teeth and, eventually, tooth loss. Osseous surgery is often the best way to stop gum disease and preserve your natural teeth for years to come.
Why Choose District Dental Surgery?
Specialized periodontal care — Our team focuses on advanced gum and bone treatments
Dual locations — Serving Washington, DC and Bethesda, MD
Experienced clinicians — Decades of combined experience in periodontal surgery
Patient-centered care — Your comfort, understanding, and outcomes matter
State-of-the-art facility & technology — For precise, gentle, predictable results
We treat each patient individually, taking into account their oral health, medical status, and goals. If you’ve been told you have advanced gum disease, or your gum therapy hasn’t fully resolved deep pockets, osseous surgery might be the solution to restore stability.
Contact us today for a consultation at our Washington, DC or Bethesda, MD offices.
Meet The Doctors
Our team, led by highly skilled and experienced periodontists, is dedicated to providing world class periodontal care with precision, innovation, and compassion. With years of experience and a passion for helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles, our doctors ensure every patient receives personalized treatment in a comfortable and modern environment.
