What is periodontitis?

01Why it matters

Periodontitis is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and according to the CDC a large share of adults over 30 have some form of gum disease. As the infection progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets, spaces that collect more bacteria. The body's response to the infection then breaks down bone and connective tissue. Unlike gingivitis, this damage cannot be fully reversed, but treatment can stop or slow it.

Research has also linked gum disease with other health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Those connections are still being studied, but keeping your gums healthy is part of caring for your overall health.

02Signs and causes

• Gums that bleed easily, look red or swollen, or feel tender.
• Gums that have pulled back, making teeth look longer.
• Bad breath or a bad taste that does not go away.
• Loose teeth, or a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite.
• Pus between the teeth and gums.

Periodontitis begins with plaque and tartar left on the teeth. Risk is higher if you smoke or use tobacco or have diabetes. A family history of gum disease, or medicines that dry the mouth, also raise it. It often develops without pain, so regular exams are important even if nothing hurts.

Get urgent care: a gum infection with fever, swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, or trouble breathing or swallowing needs immediate attention. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

03What happens

The dentist or hygienist measures the pockets around each tooth with a thin probe. X-rays show the bone levels. A common first treatment is scaling and root planing.

This deep cleaning removes tartar from below the gumline. It also smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and tighten around the teeth. Medication may be added in some cases.

Afterward, more frequent cleanings help keep the disease under control. Advanced cases may need gum surgery, and we may refer you to a dentist with advanced training in gum treatment.

04Cost factors

What treatment costs depends on:

• How many areas of the mouth need deep cleaning.
• How advanced the disease is and whether a referral is needed.
• How often follow-up maintenance cleanings are recommended.
• Your dental insurance plan. Call the office to check what your plan covers.
• The option to use CareCredit, which the office accepts.

05How to prevent it and care for your gums

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily.
• Do not smoke or use tobacco.
• If you have diabetes, work with your physician to keep blood sugar under control.
• Keep every recommended cleaning and checkup, including maintenance visits after treatment.

Concerned about your gums? See our gum disease treatment page.

06Questions people ask