Understanding Periodontal Disease and How We Treat It
Periodontal disease — often called gum disease — is an infection that affects the gums and the bone that support your teeth. It usually begins with gingivitis, which causes redness, swelling, and bleeding when brushing or flossing. If gingivitis isn’t treated, it can progress into periodontitis. At that stage, the infection moves deeper, the gums pull away from the teeth, and the bone begins to break down. Over time, this can lead to loose teeth or even tooth loss.
Common Signs of Gum Disease
- gums that bleed easily
- swollen, tender, or red gums
- bad breath that doesn’t go away
- teeth that feel loose or shift when you bite
If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s important to address them early.
What Is a Deep Cleaning?
Once gum disease has started, a regular cleaning isn’t enough to reach the bacteria below the gumline. That’s when a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is recommended.
- Scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gums.
- Root planing smooths the roots so the gums can heal and reattach.
This treatment is done with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. Depending on how much cleaning is needed, it may take one or two visits. Mild soreness afterward is normal, but most people return to their usual routine right away.
What Is Periodontal Maintenance?
After gum disease has been treated, it doesn’t simply “go away.” It can be controlled — but only with ongoing care.
Periodontal maintenance is a specialized cleaning scheduled every 3–4 months. These visits are more frequent than regular cleanings because harmful bacteria can return under the gums in about 90 days.
During periodontal maintenance, we:
- check gum health and measure pocket depths
- remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- monitor bone levels and gum attachment
- review home‑care habits to keep your gums healthy
This routine is essential for keeping gum disease under control long‑term.
What to Expect After Diagnosis
If you’re diagnosed with periodontal disease, your care typically includes:
- Initial treatment: a deep cleaning to remove infection and allow healing
- Follow‑up visits: periodontal maintenance every few months
- Home care: brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using any recommended rinses or tools
- Ongoing monitoring: tracking gum health and adjusting your care plan as needed
Why Treatment Matters
Untreated gum disease can lead to serious problems, including:
- tooth loss from bone destruction
- painful chewing and difficulty eating
- persistent bad breath
- increased risk of health issues such as heart disease and diabetes complications
Treating gum disease early protects your smile and supports your overall health. With proper care and maintenance, most people can keep their teeth for life.
At Atlantic Coast Dentistry, we’re here to help you manage gum disease with clear guidance, comfortable treatment, and ongoing support. If you’ve noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, schedule an appointment. Early care makes all the difference.