Sometimes the effects of periodontal disease create permanent changes in the tooth and gum structure that will cause issues in the future. Enlarged gum pockets under the gum line are common after having advanced gum disease. Sometimes these pockets affect the appearance of the gums. More commonly, the pockets put the teeth at future risk for tooth and gum disease, as they are just one more place that plaque and bacteria can collect. Pocket reduction surgery is designed to thwart the effects of periodontal disease and restore your mouth to a healthy state.