Gum disease occurs when bacteria accumulates below the gumline and migrates beyond where your toothbrush can reach. The chronic inflammation associated with this under-the-gumline bacteria has been linked with serious diseases such as heart disease and stroke. In certain instances it is necessary to get access to the below the gum areas to adequate remove the bacteria. Using local anesthesia, this periodontal surgery is done painlessly. The removal of gum and packing of the gums is a thing of the past. We now take a mircrosurgical technique. It usually takes no more than an hour. You can expect to return to normal activities immediately after leaving the office.