FAQ

Periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association®. This area of dentistry centers on preventing, diagnosing and treating gum disease, as well as managing conditions that affect the gums and the bone that supports your teeth and jaws.

A periodontist is a dentist with advanced specialty training in the health of the gums and supporting bone. After dental school, periodontists complete an additional three years of education focused on diagnosing and treating periodontal disease, performing specialized procedures involving soft tissues and bone, and placing dental implants.

Periodontal disease, often called gum disease, is an infection that affects the gums and the structures that support your teeth. It typically begins with inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria. In its earliest stage, it is called gingivitis. As the condition worsens and begins to damage the bone and connective tissues around the teeth, it is known as periodontitis. Because gum disease can develop gradually, it is important to be evaluated for it during routine dental visits.

Gum disease develops when harmful bacteria build up in plaque on your teeth and along the gumline. When plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which makes the bacterial buildup more difficult to clean away. Over time, this can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and form pockets where bacteria continue to collect. Without treatment, the infection can progress and lead to permanent damage.

Common signs of periodontal disease include red, puffy or tender gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, gum recession, loose teeth, pus around the gums, mouth sores, chronic bad breath, and changes in your bite. You may also notice that dentures or other removable appliances no longer fit the way they once did.

Yes. Gum disease often advances without causing noticeable pain, especially in the earlier stages. Many people do not realize there is a problem until significant damage has already occurred. Regular dental checkups are essential because your dentist or periodontist can identify the warning signs early and recommend treatment before the condition becomes more serious.

Yes. Periodontal disease can often be treated successfully, especially when it is caught early. Good oral hygiene and preventive care can help stop gum disease before it becomes severe. Once the condition reaches a more advanced stage, it may not be fully reversible, but it can often be managed with the right care. Treatment may include deep cleanings such as scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy, periodontal surgery, laser dentistry, dental implants, and improvements to your home care routine, such as prescription products or specialized oral hygiene tools.

Some people have a greater chance of developing periodontal disease than others. Risk factors include smoking or using tobacco, inconsistent brushing and flossing, a family history of gum disease, certain systemic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or osteoporosis, and pregnancy. Because several factors can increase your risk, regular dental visits are an important part of prevention.

A strong home care routine is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of gum disease. You should brush your teeth at least twice each day, and brushing after meals and before bed is especially helpful. Daily flossing is also important because it removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and along the gumline. In addition, routine dental cleanings and exams at least twice a year help keep your mouth healthy.

Your gum health and your overall health are closely linked. Periodontal disease has been associated with health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, respiratory conditions and osteoporosis. In many cases, these conditions can also make gum disease more likely or more difficult to control. Pregnancy can also increase the risk of periodontal problems, and untreated gum disease during pregnancy has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Keeping your gums healthy is an important part of protecting your general well-being.

Gum recession happens when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth surface or even the root. This can be caused by periodontal disease, brushing too aggressively or other factors. As recession progresses, it can lead to loss of supporting tissue and bone, increased sensitivity and even tooth loss. Treatments such as soft tissue grafting may be recommended to restore healthier gum coverage and help protect your teeth.

Periodontal pockets are spaces that form between the teeth and gums when the supporting tissues become damaged. In a healthy mouth, the gums fit closely around each tooth. When gum disease breaks down the surrounding gum tissue and bone, deeper pockets can develop. These pockets create an environment where bacteria can gather, making the infection more difficult to control and increasing the risk of further damage.

Even after active periodontal treatment is complete, ongoing care is necessary to help maintain your results. Periodontal maintenance visits allow your periodontist to remove bacteria and buildup from areas that are difficult to clean at home and to watch for signs that gum disease may be returning. These follow-up visits play an important role in protecting your long-term oral health.

Serious periodontal disease is uncommon in children and teenagers, but healthy habits should begin early. Teaching children to brush twice a day, floss daily and see the dentist regularly can help them build routines that protect their gums as they grow. Early education and preventive care can lower the risk of gum problems later in life.

The cost of periodontal treatment can vary depending on the type of care you need. During your initial consultation, your periodontist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your concerns and recommend a treatment plan based on your specific needs. Once your plan is determined, you can receive an estimate of the expected cost of treatment.