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Pocket Reduction Surgery Specialist

Shen Ling, DMD

Dentist & Periodontist located in South Bay, Torrance, CA & Diamond Bar, CA

Pocket reduction surgery helps eliminate bacteria and prevent future infection by restructuring the area around the tooth root. As a leading provider of pocket reduction surgery in and around Torrance and Diamond Bar, CA, Dr. Ling helps men and women correct damage from severe gum disease so they can preserve their natural teeth.

Pocket Reduction Surgery

What is pocket reduction surgery?

Also called gingivectomy, pocket reduction surgery uses special techniques to access the tooth root so bacteria can be removed and the root pocket can be reshaped to make it more difficult for bacteria to grow and multiply. The tooth root may also be smoothed during the procedure to reduce rough spots where bacteria are more likely to collect.

When is gingivectomy recommended?

Pocket reduction surgery is recommended for many patients with advanced gum disease, or periodontitis, to achieve the following goals:

  • restore the health of teeth and gums
  • stop the progression of bone loss that occurs when bacteria are allowed to collect around the tooth and the root, causing inflammation that can result in the destruction of bone tissue
  • remove disease-causing bacteria and the hardened tartar where bacteria hide
  • reduce the overall health risks and the risks of secondary infections associated with a build-up of disease-causing bacteria in the mouth
  • make it easier to keep teeth clean using regular brushing and flossing methods
  • improving the aesthetics of the smile by preventing severe gum recession and tooth loss

How is pocket reduction surgery performed?

Once the treatment site has been thoroughly evaluated with an oral exam and dental x-rays to evaluate the extent of gum disease and the size of the root pockets, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the area, and sedation may also be offered to ensure patients remain comfortable during the procedure. Surgery begins with incisions in the affected portion of the gum so the tissue can be carefully pulled away from the tooth surface. Special instruments are used to remove bacteria, plaque and hard tartar (calculus) from the tooth and the root pocket. The root surface may also be smoothed. A special germ-fighting solution may be applied to the area to kill hard-to-reach bacteria. Finally, the gum tissue will be repositioned against the tooth and sutured in place. Patients who are concerned about the health of their gums or who suffer from gingivitis can make an appointment with Dr. Ling at either of his conveniently located practices.

Accepted Insurance

This is a short-list of just some of the plans we accept. We accept most Dental PPO. Please contact our office if you do not see your insurance provider listed.

Aetna
Ameritas
Assurant Health
Blue Shield of California
Cigna
CompBenefits
Coventry Health Care
Delta Dental
Dental Benefit Providers
Dental Network of America, Inc. (DNoA)
DenteMax
First Dental Health
Guardian
Humana
MetLife
Principal Financial Group
Our Locations

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