Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and it is largely painless until it is advanced — which is exactly what makes it dangerous. It is also, caught early, very treatable.
What are the warning signs?
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss — this is not normal, however common it is
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Gums pulling away from the teeth, making teeth look longer
- Loose teeth, or a bite that suddenly feels different
How does it progress?
Plaque hardens into calculus at and below the gum line. The gum responds with inflammation — gingivitis, which is reversible. Left alone, the inflammation destroys the bone anchoring the teeth. Bone lost to periodontal disease does not grow back on its own, which is why early treatment matters so much more than late treatment.
Why should I care beyond my teeth?
Oral health is a real factor in general health. Chronic gum inflammation has been associated with cardiovascular disease, poorly controlled diabetes and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Your mouth is not sealed off from the rest of you.
How is it treated?
Diagnosis first — we measure pocket depths around every tooth and use imaging to see the bone. Treatment then scales to the disease:
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove calculus below the gum line and let the tissue reattach
- Laser therapy where indicated
- Periodontal maintenance — more frequent cleanings than the standard six-month interval, because treated periodontal disease is a managed condition, not a cured one
- Bone and gum grafting in advanced cases; Dr. Boiano has advanced training in both
Who will I see?
Our registered dental hygienist handles much of the periodontal care, working with both dentists on cases that need more than routine maintenance.
Related: 3D imaging to assess bone loss, aftercare following deep cleaning, and implants where teeth are already lost.