Q: Do you usually need surgery for gum disease?
A: There are different degrees of gum disease. The goal is to stop the disease process, regain gum health, and retain teeth. Gum disease is an infection process. Its damage is mainly in the jawbone supporting the teeth. The damage is generally irreversible. Some stages of gum disease can be treated non-invasively and others require surgery. Only a dentist or periodontist can determine treatment.