

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums that surround your teeth caused by naturally occurring plaque that is not properly removed by brushing, flossing and regular professional cleanings. There are different stages of gum disease depending on how advanced the gum Disease infection becomes. Gum disease in its most advanced stages can result in tooth loss. In order to help prevent this from happening, your dentist will check for signs of gum disease by measuring the space between your gums disease and teeth during your regular checkup.

Types of Gum Disease


Gingivitis is the mildest form of periodontal disease. It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment for gum disease and good oral home care.Factors that may contribute to gingivitis include, diabetes, smoking, aging, genetic predisposition, systemic diseases and conditions, stress, inadequate nutrition, puberty, hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, substance abuse, HIV infection, and certain medication use.

Gum Disease Treatment

Gum Disease Treatment



Gum Disease Symptoms

  • Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
  • Loose or separating teeth
  • Pus between your gums and teeth
  • Sores in your mouth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • A change in the fit of partial dentures

Treatment of gum disease

If you or your dentist notice signs of gum disease, your dentist may ask about any symptoms and examine your gums disease treatment. You will also be asked about your medical history as some conditions impact on your oral health, and vice versa.

Scaling and surgery

If you have gingivitis, your dentist will clean your teeth thoroughly with gritty toothpaste using an electric toothbrush and special instruments called scalers. This type of thorough cleaning is called scaling. Your dentist may also recommend an antiseptic mouthwash that helps prevent plaque formation and teach you how to brush and
floss your teeth properly, especially in the areas that you’re not reaching.

Gum surgery

If the pockets are too deep for a dentist to clean simply by scaling, you may need gum disease surgery. Your dentist will refer you to a periodontologist (a specialist in treating gum disease) for this. Typically, the surgery involves making some cuts in the gum tissue so that it can be pulled back. This allows the periodontologist to see into the bottom of very deep pockets and clean the area much more effectively. Once all the plaque and calculus has been removed, the flap of gum disease is replaced with sutures (stitches).