Gum care

Periodontal pocket reduction in Lehi

Deep gaps between your teeth and gums can trap germs that a toothbrush cannot reach. Pocket reduction makes those spaces smaller so your gums are easier to keep clean and healthy.

Call (385) 452-6985 Insurance and payment

What is periodontal pocket reduction?

Pocket reduction is a gum procedure for advanced gum disease. Your dentist gently folds back the gum, cleans the tooth roots and smooths any rough bone. Then the gum is placed snugly back around the tooth so the pocket is shallower.

Used when pockets stay deep after a deep cleaning
Makes it easier for you and your dental team to clean
Can help slow bone loss around your teeth

When pocket reduction may be needed

Healthy gums fit close to your teeth, with only a shallow space between them. With gum disease, that space can grow deeper. Your dentist may suggest pocket reduction if:

Your pockets are still deep after scaling and root planing
X-rays show bone loss around some teeth
Food and plaque keep getting trapped below the gum line
Some teeth have started to feel loose

Deep pockets can hold more germs, and those germs can wear away the bone that holds your teeth. Without care, a tooth may become loose enough that it needs to be removed. Your dentist will measure your pockets and explain all of your choices, including laser-assisted therapy, before you decide.

What to expect

Numbing. The area is numbed so you can stay comfortable.
Open the gum. Your dentist makes small cuts to gently fold the gum back from the teeth.
Clean deeply. Tartar and germs are removed from the roots. Rough or uneven bone may be smoothed so the gum can lie flat.
Close. The gum is placed back around the teeth and held with small stitches.
Follow-up. You return so your dentist can check healing and remove stitches if needed.

Treatment may be split into a few visits, with each one focused on one area of your mouth. A visit often takes about 30 to 60 minutes, based on how many teeth are treated. Some people also need bone grafting to rebuild lost support.

Recovering at home

Expect some soreness, swelling and sensitivity for a few days. A cold pack on your cheek can help with swelling. Take any medicine as your dentist directs. Eat soft foods and chew on the other side. Do not brush the treated area until your dentist says it is okay, but keep cleaning the rest of your mouth. Avoid smoking, which slows healing. Call us if pain or bleeding gets worse, or if you have a fever. Read our post-op care tips for more.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about periodontal pocket reduction

How deep is too deep for a gum pocket?

Healthy pockets are usually 1 to 3 millimeters. Deeper pockets are harder to clean and may point to gum disease. Your dentist measures them at your exam.

Can I shrink pockets with home care alone?

Good brushing, flossing and rinsing can help gums tighten, mostly in early stages. Pockets that stay deep after professional cleaning often need more care.

Will my gums look different afterward?

Your gums may sit a little lower on some teeth as they heal. This is part of making the pockets shallower. Your dentist will talk with you about what to expect.

How long does full healing take?

The gums often feel better within a week or two. Full healing below the surface takes longer, often a few months, and several visits may be needed to treat all areas.

Related care