Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the soft tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.
In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to sore, bleeding gums; painful chewing problems; and even tooth loss.
You may need surgery for severe gum disease (periodontitis) if it cannot be cured with antibiotics or root planning and scaling.
Types of surgery include:
Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy removes and reshapes loose, diseased gum tissue to get rid of pockets between the teeth and gums. A gum specialist (periodontist) or oral surgeon often will do the procedure.
