Periodontal Care and Gum Disease Treatment

What it is

An infection of the gums.

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection of the gum tissue and a major cause of tooth loss in adults. It begins when plaque and tartar build up between the gums and teeth, usually because of gaps in home care or missed cleanings. Over time the bacteria irritate and attack the gums and the tissue that supports your teeth.

Many people do not know they have it, because early gum disease rarely hurts. That is why regular exams matter. Good brushing, flossing and regular visits are your strongest protection.

Gum disease also affects your overall health, and it is linked with other health conditions, so treating it is about more than your smile. Not sure what you are seeing? Read what gum disease looks like.

Three stages

How gum disease progresses.

Signs differ by stage. If you notice any of these, book an exam.

Gingivitis

The first stage causes inflammation and redness, and gums may bleed when you brush or floss. It is reversible and causes no permanent damage when treated with professional care and better habits at home.

Early signs Red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, and bad breath that does not go away.
Periodontitis

The second stage causes lasting damage to the gums and the structures that hold your teeth. It cannot be fully cured, but it can be managed with periodontal cleanings and good home care, which stops further damage.

Moderate signs Gums that pull back so teeth look longer, sensitivity when chewing or biting, and more bleeding.
Advanced periodontitis

The final stage often calls for surgical care to restore the gums, and some teeth may be too damaged to keep and need to be removed.

Advanced signs Teeth that feel loose or fit together differently, a foul taste, pus between the gums and teeth, and pain when chewing.

Treatment

Deep cleaning, step by step.

For most mild to moderate cases, the first treatment is a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing.

Comfort first
Your mouth is numbed so you stay comfortable.
Cleaning below the gums
Special instruments clean deep between the gums and teeth to remove plaque and tartar.
Smoothing the roots
The tooth roots are smoothed so the gums can reattach and pockets can shrink.
Two visits
It is usually done in two visits a few weeks apart, one half of the mouth at a time. Teeth can feel sensitive for a few weeks afterward, and the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacteria.
Two visits, a few weeks apart
Ongoing care
Some patients need repeat deep cleanings or ongoing periodontal cleanings to keep the disease under control.

Can it be reversed

Early care changes the outcome.

At the gingivitis stage

Yes, but only at the gingivitis stage. A professional deep cleaning, plus better home care, a healthier diet and quitting smoking, can fully reverse it.

If it advances to periodontitis, the damage cannot be undone, though it can be controlled for life with the right care.

A plan made for you

A personalized plan from Dr. Kwon or Dr. Park may include deep cleaning, antibiotics and, when needed, surgery. Your exam decides what is right for you.

Meet the doctors

Common questions