A pocket reduction procedure is recommended when pockets are too deep to clean with daily homecare and professional routine cleanings. During this procedure, your periodontist folds back the gum tissue and removes the disease-causing bacteria before securing the tissue back into place. In some cases, irregular surfaces of the damaged bone are smoothed to limit areas where disease-causing bacteria can hide. This allows the gum tissue to better reattach to healthy bone, and makes it easier for you to clean at home. Routine follow-up and continual care after pocket reduction procedures is vital in maintaining healthy gums and teeth.