SPECIALIST TREATMENT

Periodontal Disease

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Understanding Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease affects the gums and bone that support your teeth. It can develop gradually, often without noticeable pain, making early detection and treatment important for protecting your oral health.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammatory condition caused by bacteria that accumulate around the teeth and beneath the gumline. As the condition progresses, the gums may pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria collect. Without treatment, the supporting bone and tissue can become damaged.

Illustration of a healthy tooth with gums and bone
Illustration of periodontal disease showing tartar, a deep gum pocket and bone loss

Periodontal disease: tartar, a deep pocket, inflamed gums and bone loss

Healthy tooth, gums and bone

Illustrations: DBCLS TogoTV, CC BY 4.0

Signs and Symptoms

Periodontal disease may not cause pain in its early stages. Common warning signs include:

  • Bleeding when brushing or flossing

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Receding gums

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Loose or shifting teeth

  • Changes in your bite

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and your individual needs.

Non-surgical treatment often begins with scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and hardened deposits beneath the gumline.

For more advanced cases, periodontal surgery may be recommended to access deeper areas, reduce pockets, and address damaged supporting tissues.

Dr. Humayun evaluates each patient's periodontal health to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Long-Term Gum Health

Periodontal disease requires ongoing care. After treatment, regular periodontal maintenance and good oral hygiene help manage the condition and reduce the risk of further damage.

Your maintenance schedule will be based on your needs and may involve coordinated care with your general dentist.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the likelihood or severity of periodontal disease, including smoking, diabetes, family history, some medications, and conditions affecting the immune system.

Discussing your medical history helps Dr. Humayun develop a treatment plan suited to your needs.

Concerned About Your Gum Health?

A periodontal evaluation can help identify concerns and determine whether treatment is needed.

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