Periodontal Disease, Diagnosis and Treatment

What Is Periodontal Disease?

The word periodontal means “relating to or affecting the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth.” Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth—and it’s the number one reason for tooth loss.

Research suggests there may be a connection between periodontal disease and other health issues such as:

• Stroke
• Bacterial pneumonia
• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Increased risks during pregnancy

Smoking also significantly increases the risk of developing periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can all help reduce your risk.

Signs and Symptoms

Some of the most common signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• New spacing between teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus around the teeth and gums
• Receding gums
• Red and puffy gums
• Tenderness or discomfort

How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?

Periodontal disease is diagnosed during a periodontal assessment—a key part of your initial comprehensive or routine dental exam.

During this process:

• A periodontal probe is gently used to measure the sulcus (the pocket or space) between the tooth and gums.
• A healthy sulcus measures three millimeters or less and does not bleed.
• Deeper pockets usually indicate periodontal progression.

Your dentist and hygienist will also assess bleeding, inflammation, tooth mobility, and other factors to determine the correct diagnosis.

Types of Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis

• The mildest form of periodontal disease
• Caused by inadequate oral hygiene
• Plaque toxins irritate the gums, making them red, inflamed, and prone to bleeding
• Often no discomfort during this stage
• Completely reversible with proper home care and professional cleanings

Periodontitis

• A more advanced form of gum disease
• Plaque hardens into calculus (tartar)
• Toxins trigger chronic inflammation
• Tissues and bone supporting the teeth begin to break down
• Deep pockets between teeth and gums form and fill with bacteria
• Often presents with mild symptoms, but if untreated, teeth can loosen or require removal

📊 Over 40% of adults over age 30 have some form of periodontitis, and that number jumps to over 60% by age 65.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the disease.

If Caught Early (Gingivitis)

• Routine cleanings may be all that’s needed
• You'll receive instructions to improve home hygiene
• Regular checkups are recommended

If Advanced (Periodontitis)

• A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be required
• Usually done one quadrant at a time with local anesthetic
• Removes calculus and plaque above and below the gum line (scaling)
• Smooths rough spots on root surfaces (planing)
• Helps gum tissue heal and pockets shrink
• May include medications, special rinses, or electric toothbrush use

Most patients do not need further active treatment after scaling and root planing, but many require ongoing maintenance therapy to keep their gums healthy.

If healing is incomplete, periodontal surgery or a referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) may be recommended.

Caring for Your Smile

You’ll receive personalized care instructions after treatment. We also provide post-operative instructions on our website for your convenience.

Ready to Take Care of Your Gum Health?

If you're noticing any signs of gum disease or have questions about your gum health, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation—we’re here to help protect your smile.

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