It is a minor surgical procedure generally done in the dental office with a local anesthetic. It involves folding the gum back away from the tooth just enough so that a Periodontist, a dentist specializing in the treatment of gum diseases, can see the tooth root surfaces. Periodontal surgery involves the enhancement of the gum tissue which holds your teeth in place. Once they are seen, the deep bacterial deposits crusted on the tooth can be removed. Symptoms include chronic redness and sensitivity, bleeding gums, loss of gum tissue supporting the teeth and, in advanced cases, bone loss and damage to the fundamental tooth structure. Periodontal surgery prevents further receding gums, and improves the appearance of a healthy smile.