What is Distal Wedge Surgery?

Did your dentist mention a deep pocket behind your last molar, even though the rest of your gums are healthy? This is a very common issue, especially in patients who have had their wisdom teeth removed. In this video, we explain what causes these deep pockets and how a simple procedure called Distal Wedge Surgery can fix the problem.

Over time, the gum tissue behind the last molar can thicken and build up, almost like scar tissue. Because there’s no tooth behind it, you can’t floss the area the way you normally would. Food and bacteria get trapped, inflammation sets in, and the pocket can gradually get deeper. Even patients with otherwise healthy gums can develop this isolated problem.

A Distal Wedge procedure is a straightforward way to correct it. We remove a small, wedge-shaped piece of excess tissue behind the last molar. This allows us to close the area completely with a few small sutures, eliminate the deep pocket, and create a space you can actually keep clean at home.

It’s one of the simplest, low-intensity procedures we perform as periodontists. Most patients compare it to getting a filling or crown and return to work the same day. Healing is typically smooth, and patients are able to maintain the area right away.

If your dentist or periodontist has recommended a distal wedge, or you’ve been told you have a deep pocket behind your last molar, this video will help you understand exactly why it’s needed and what to expect.