Call Now 215-657-2211
2325 Maryland Rd Ste 140 • Willow Grove, PA 19090

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and the bone supporting the teeth. It begins with plaque—a sticky, colorless film of bacteria—that causes inflammation of the gums.

In its earliest stage, gingivitis, gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily, often without pain. With proper professional care and good oral hygiene, gingivitis is reversible.

If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. In this advanced stage, bacteria produce toxins that trigger inflammation, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and form infected pockets. Over time, this can lead to the breakdown of gum tissue and bone, potentially resulting in loose teeth or tooth loss.

The primary cause of periodontal disease is plaque buildup, but several factors can increase risk, including smoking, genetics, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or puberty), stress, certain medications, teeth grinding or clenching, diabetes, poor nutrition, and other systemic health conditions.

When to see a Periodontist

Dentist Examining Patient's Teeth In Clinic

If you care about your oral and overall health, it’s always a good time for a periodontal evaluation—especially since gum disease can go unnoticed. Consider seeing a periodontist if you have symptoms like bleeding, swollen, or receding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or changes in your bite.

You should also schedule an evaluation if you are pregnant or planning to be, have a family history of gum disease, or have health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease.

Additionally, a periodontist can help if you’re unhappy with your smile, have missing teeth, or are exploring long-term solutions like dental implants.

What is the treatment for Periodontal Disease?

Close Up Of Smiling Black Woman At Dentist

After evaluating your periodontal health, we’ll recommend a personalized treatment plan to stop the disease and restore your oral health.

Early-stage treatment may involve deep cleaning to remove plaque and bacteria below the gum line. More advanced cases may require additional procedures to treat deep pockets and rebuild lost bone.

The goal of treatment is to control infection, preserve your teeth, and maintain long-term oral health.

Benefits may include:

  • Reduced infection
  • Bone regeneration
  • Tooth preservation
  • Fresher breath
  • A healthier, more youthful smile

Mouth-Body Connection

F74a0ee7 16c8 4b6e B296 39db8cdde3d6

Research shows a strong link between periodontal (gum) disease and overall health. Chronic inflammation and bacteria from the mouth can contribute to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications, and respiratory illness.

  • Diabetes: Increases risk of gum disease, while gum disease can make blood sugar harder to control.
  • Heart Disease: Oral bacteria may enter the bloodstream, contributing to artery blockage and heart complications.
  • Pregnancy: Gum disease is linked to a higher risk of premature, low birth weight babies.
  • Respiratory Disease: Bacteria from the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially causing or worsening infections.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and treating periodontal disease can help protect both your oral and overall health.

Non-Surgical Treatments

F7f210f6 B160 41be 9e5e 27487ffb68de

Periodontal care is often treated in the least invasive, most cost-effective way using non-surgical methods like scaling and root planing. These deep-cleaning procedures remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from below the gum line and smooth root surfaces to promote healing. With good oral hygiene, gums can reattach to the teeth and pockets may reduce within a few weeks. Many patients require no further treatment beyond this, though ongoing maintenance is essential.

If non-surgical treatment is not sufficient, surgical options may be recommended to restore gum and bone health and improve long-term care.

Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling

Scaling removes plaque, tartar, bacteria, and toxins from above and below the gum line, reaching the bottom of periodontal pockets to promote healing.

Root planing smooths the tooth roots so gums can reattach and helps prevent future buildup. Because this is a deeper cleaning, the area may be numbed and treatment may be completed over one or more visits.

Aftercare

  • Avoid eating until numbness wears off
  • Rinse with warm salt water to soothe gums
  • Brush and floss gently after meals
  • Use prescribed rinses as directed
  • Replace or disinfect your toothbrush regularly

Mild discomfort is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Contact your dentist if swelling occurs or discomfort lasts more than 36 hours.

Periodontal Surgery

Doctor Dentist Examining Patient Oral Cavity With Veneers Closeup

When non-surgical treatments aren’t enough, periodontal surgery may be recommended to restore gum and bone health. These procedures help reduce infection, repair damage, and improve both function and appearance.

Common types of periodontal surgery include:

  • Pocket Reduction: Removes bacteria and reduces deep gum pockets so they’re easier to keep clean, helping prevent further bone and tissue loss.
  • Regenerative Procedures: Use bone grafts or special materials to rebuild lost bone and tissue, restoring support for the teeth.
  • Crown Lengthening: Reshapes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth, improving appearance or preparing for restorative treatments.
  • Soft Tissue Grafts: Cover exposed roots caused by gum recession to reduce sensitivity, protect teeth, and enhance your smile.

These treatments aim to preserve natural teeth, improve oral health, and create a healthier, more confident smile.

Plastic Surgery/Cosmetic Procedures

Woman Looks In The Mirror In Dentist Chair.viewed Oral Hygiene. Woman At The Dentist. Woman In The Dental Chair Dental Treatment During Surgery.

Mucogingival (gum) procedures improve both the health and appearance of your smile by restoring and reshaping gum tissue.

Benefits include:

  • Regenerates lost or thinning gum tissue
  • Helps prevent further gum recession
  • Protects exposed roots from sensitivity and decay
  • Improves gum shape, symmetry, and overall aesthetics
  • Enhances results of restorative and orthodontic treatments
  • Promotes easier cleaning and healthier gums
  • Minimally invasive with faster healing and predictable results

Antibiotic Treatment

Woman With Pills Or Capsules On Hand And A Glass Of Water

Antibiotics are often used alongside periodontal treatments to reduce bacteria and control infection. They may be used before, during, or after procedures—or in some cases, on their own.

Treatment options include oral antibiotics, which affect the whole body, and site-specific antibiotics placed directly into gum pockets. Local treatments are often preferred, as they target the infection without affecting the entire body.

Antibiotics can be prescribed short-term or at low doses over time, depending on the severity of the condition. When combined with procedures like scaling and root planing, they can significantly improve healing and help prevent the return of infection.

Maintenance

Oral Hygiene, Dentist Doing Scaling And Brushing Procedure

Plaque can turn into hard tartar within 24 hours if not removed, making daily home care essential but not enough on its own.

After periodontal treatment, regular maintenance cleanings—typically about four times per year—are recommended. These visits remove plaque and tartar below the gum line, check pocket depths, and help prevent disease from returning.

Each appointment may also include X-rays, checks for decay and existing restorations, oral cancer screening, personalized hygiene guidance, and polishing.

Ongoing home care combined with professional maintenance is key to keeping gums healthy and controlling periodontal disease.

Contact Us to Schedule A Consultation

Diamond Periodontics |
2325 Maryland Rd Ste 140 • Willow Grove, PA 19090
| 215-657-2211