Periodontal Therapy

What Is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease — commonly called gum disease — is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It begins as gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that damages the bone supporting your teeth. 

It is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults, and research has linked it to systemic conditions including heart disease and diabetes. 

The good news is that when caught early, it is very treatable. 

Signs You May Have Gum Disease 

Common signs include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth, or teeth that feel loose. Many people have gum disease without realizing it — which is one reason regular hygiene visits matter. 

What Does Periodontal Therapy Involve? 

Treatment depends on the severity of your condition. In the early stages, a thorough teeth cleaning and improved home care routine may be all that's needed. For more advanced cases, we perform root planing — a deep cleaning procedure that removes buildup from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces to help the gum tissue reattach.

Ongoing Care 

Patients with a history of periodontal disease typically benefit from more frequent hygiene visits — usually every three to four months rather than six.