Periodontal (Gum) Disease Therapy/Treatment

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums caused by harmful bacteria. This infection can lead to inflammation and the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. While it can develop for several reasons, common contributing factors include poor oral hygiene, genetics, certain medications, and misaligned teeth. Gum disease is very common, and many people will experience some form of it at some point in their lives, especially as they get older.

Signs of gum disease often include red, swollen, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; gum recession; discomfort; and teeth that may begin to feel loose. If left untreated, the condition can worsen over time, leading to more serious issues such as loss of gum tissue, damage to the jawbone, and even tooth loss. Because oral health is closely connected to overall health, gum disease can also have broader effects on the body.

The good news is that gum disease can be effectively managed with proper treatment. A common approach is scaling and root planing, often referred to as a deep cleaning. During this procedure, plaque and bacteria are removed from below the gumline, and the tooth roots are smoothed to help the gums heal and reattach. This treatment can help stop the progression of the disease and, in some cases, improve gum health.

For patients with gum disease or ongoing symptoms, we recommend more frequent regular prophylaxis appointments, from two to three or four times a year, to prevent buildups. Once deep cleaning is done, we can manage the periodontal disease through oral hygiene instruction and more frequent prophylaxis appointments to prevent buildups. However, the frequency may vary depending on the severity of the condition, and some patients may benefit from more frequent care to maintain optimal gum health.