Why Gum Health Matters
Don’t overlook the foundation.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is one of the most common dental conditions — and one of the most commonly overlooked, because it often develops without pain or obvious symptoms until it’s more advanced. By then, it can cause tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health issues including heart disease and diabetes.
The good news: caught early, gum disease is very manageable. We screen for it at every visit and discuss findings openly so you always know where things stand.
Signs of gum disease to watch for:
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Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
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Red, swollen, or tender gums
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Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
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Persistent bad breath
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Teeth that feel loose or have shifted
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Sensitivity along the gum line
Treatment & Management
What treatment looks like.
The appropriate treatment depends on the stage of gum disease. Early-stage gingivitis often resolves with a thorough professional cleaning and improved home care. More advanced periodontitis requires deeper treatment.
Scaling and root planing
A deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the root surfaces so gums can reattach. Usually done in two appointments (one side of the mouth per visit) with local anesthesia for comfort.
Periodontal maintenance
Patients who have had gum disease typically need cleanings every three to four months (rather than every six) to keep things stable. We monitor closely and adjust the schedule based on how things are progressing.
For more advanced cases that require surgical intervention, we’ll refer you to a trusted periodontist and stay closely coordinated on your care.
Common Questions
What patients ask about gum disease.
Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) is fully reversible with professional treatment and improved home care. More advanced periodontitis can be controlled and managed, but the bone and tissue loss that has already occurred can’t be fully reversed — which is why early treatment matters so much.
We use local anesthesia during scaling and root planing, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Some sensitivity and mild soreness in the gums for a day or two afterward is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft-bristle brush help with recovery.
A standard prophylaxis (regular cleaning) removes plaque and tartar above and slightly below the gum line. Scaling and root planing goes deeper — cleaning down to the root surface in areas where gum disease has caused pockets to form. It typically requires anesthesia and is done in sections rather than all at once.
Most PPO plans cover scaling and root planing as a periodontal treatment, usually at 80% after your deductible. Periodontal maintenance visits are also typically covered, though at a different rate than standard cleanings. We verify your benefits before treatment so there are no surprises.
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Preventive
Exam & Cleaning
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Restorative
Dental Implants
Healthy gums are essential before and after implant placement.
Urgent Care
Dental Emergency
Sudden gum pain or swelling? We can see you today.