Periodontal disease affects the gums and bone surrounding teeth. The most prevalent periodontal diseases are gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums, which is reversible when promptly treated. Periodontitis is more serious because it affects the bone that supports teeth and can ultimately lead to loosing teeth.

At each preventive visit at our office, we screen you for the presence of periodontal disease. We use a small probe that is inserted in the space between teeth and the surrounding gums and bone and the depth yields key information: the presence or absence of a pocket. In that pocket, bacteria can proliferate and destroy the bone. Curettage of the pockets or gum surgery is then indicated to eliminate the pockets.

Periodontitis cannot be completely eliminated but it can be well controlled. Patients with periodontitis must visit their dentist regularly for a lifetime to keep it under control and maintain optimal oral health.

Recession of the gums is a condition that results in a lack of healthy gum tissue around teeth. It can be caused by aggressive brushing, malpositioning of teeth, or periodontitis. A graft is then indicated. It allows preserving of existing gum tissue, augmenting it, and stopping the disease process.