Treatment of Periodontal/Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the gums and the surrounding tissues that support the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of bacteria (plaque).  It can be caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, hormonal changes and certain genetic or medical conditions. If your hygienist says you have some form of gum disease you should take it seriously, as it can lead to tooth loss. The inflammation and infection in your gums can also travel to your heart increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke and it can make it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar. We can provide special cleanings to take care of mild cases of periodontal disease. These are called scaling and planning. However, more serious cases will be referred to an endodontist.