Periodontal care focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating conditions that affect the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The most common issue addressed through periodontal care is periodontal disease, a progressive infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss and impact your overall health if left untreated.
Gum disease often begins painlessly and gradually, making it easy to overlook. Early intervention is critical, and with proper care, even advanced cases can be managed effectively.
Periodontal (gum) disease begins when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on the teeth and hardens into tartar. This irritates the gums, leading to inflammation (gingivitis). If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. Over time, this can damage the bone that supports your teeth and eventually lead to tooth loss.
For patients with healthy gums or early signs of gingivitis, routine cleanings help prevent gum disease and maintain oral health.
A non-surgical treatment for early to moderate periodontitis, this procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.
After treatment, ongoing maintenance visits every 3–4 months help control infection and prevent recurrence.
In advanced cases, we may coordinate your care with a periodontist for specialized treatments like gum surgery, grafting, or laser therapy.
Healthy gums are essential for a strong, functional smile. Untreated gum disease has also been linked to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and complications in pregnancy. That's why we take a proactive approach to monitoring and treating gum health.
If you’re experiencing any signs of gum disease—or simply haven’t had a dental cleaning in a while—we’re here to help. Early intervention can save your teeth and protect your overall health.
Schedule your periodontal evaluation today and keep your smile strong from the roots up.
Periodontitis is primarily caused by plaque and tartar buildup due to:
Dentists diagnose periodontal disease through:
Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Gingivitis, the early stage, is reversible with professional cleanings and good home care. Periodontitis, the more advanced stage, is not curable but can be managed with ongoing professional treatment and maintenance.
Most gum treatments are done under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild soreness or sensitivity afterward is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medication.
Yes. Untreated periodontitis can destroy the bone and tissue holding your teeth in place, eventually leading to tooth mobility and loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Absolutely. Research has linked gum disease to:
Maintaining healthy gums contributes to your overall wellness.
If you’ve been treated for gum disease, your dentist or periodontist will recommend periodontal maintenance cleanings every 3 to 4 months to manage the condition and prevent relapse.
Mild gum inflammation can improve with treatment, but receded gums typically do not grow back on their own. In some cases, gum graft surgery may be recommended to restore lost tissue.
Many dental insurance plans cover non-surgical periodontal care, such as scaling and root planing. Coverage for advanced treatments or surgery varies. Our team can help verify your benefits and provide cost estimates.
Preventive care is key: