Gum disease, sometimes called periodontal disease, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. The bacteria that cause this dental disease have been linked to serious health problems such as heart problems, poor circulation leading to diabetic concerns, strokes premature and even low birth rate babies and even cancer. When we treat gum disease, our concern is for your overall health, not just your teeth. Even with all the advancement in prevention, 70% of all adults still have some form of gum disease present in their mouth. For this reason, we always do a thorough evaluation so we can prescribe the right level of cleaning.
Actually, there are 3 different levels of gum and bone disease. Even in 2012 approximately 75% of the adult population still has some form of gum disease. Given all the advances in our service and technology this isn’t a particular proud number for our profession since it hasn’t significantly changed in the last several decades. If you’re one of the 25% – congratulations! A preventive (or regular) level of cleaning works well for you if you have no evidence of disease in your mouth. For the other 75% there are two levels of therapeutic cleaning you need to know about.
If you have disease present, which means bleeding, tenderness or increased depth of the cuff of tissue around your teeth, then a therapeutic cleaning is what is needed for you. Depending on your individualized problem you may benefit from either Supportive Periodontal Therapy (SPT) or Scaling or Root Planing.
Supportive Periodontal Therapy is a more thorough cleaning regimen designed to remove excess deposits that are inflaming the gum tissue.
Scaling and Root Planing is an even more thorough cleaning removing deposits and toxic substances that have attached to the roots of the teeth. Typically, there is loss of the supportive bone because of these elements.
Often, these two therapeutic regimens are combined, again depending on the amount and location of disease present.
Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) is a common yet serious condition that begins with mild inflammation and can advance to tooth and bone loss if left untreated.
Early detection and care can stop it in its tracks.
Healthy Gums
Underlying bone is strong and supports teeth firmly.
🛡️ Maintaining this state is as simple as brushing twice daily, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly.
Gingivitis
Gums become red, inflamed, and may bleed when brushing or flossing. Pain is usually minimal.
✅ Gingivitis is completely reversible with improved oral hygiene and a professional dental cleaning.
Early to Moderate Periodontitis
Infection reaches bone; mild bone loss begins.
Symptoms may include bad breath, increased sensitivity, and gums that feel tender.
🛠️ Requires professional deep cleaning (“scaling and root planing”) plus better daily care.
Moderate to Advanced Periodontitis
Signs include persistent bad breath, exposed roots causing sensitivity, and sometimes pus drainage.
⚠️ At this point, damage is irreversible. Treatment may include surgery, gum grafts, and—in severe cases—extraction or implants.
- Plaque buildup – bacteria accumulate at gum line.
- Gingivitis – gums inflamed but no bone damage.
- Pocket formation – gums separate from teeth as infection spreads.
- Bone loss and tooth damage – supporting structures erode, risking tooth loss.
- If untreated, this infection can also enter the bloodstream and contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illness, and stroke.
- Brush twice daily with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between teeth daily using floss or interdental brushes.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months (or more often if needed).
- Avoid smoking—this greatly increases disease risk.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D, and calcium. Stay hydrated.
- If diagnosed: your dentist may perform scaling, root planing, or recommend surgery depending on severity.
Remember: Gum disease is preventable! Early detection makes treatment simple and effective. Regular dental visits are the key to keeping your smile healthy for life.