Periodontitis, also referred to as severe gum disease, is a prevalent condition that individuals may encounter at some point in their lives. Neglecting treatment for periodontitis can result in tooth loss, jawbone damage, and adverse effects on your overall health and immune system. At The Dental Specialty Center, our team is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive information on periodontitis, including treatment options, prevention techniques, care guidelines, and effective solutions.

Periodontal disease often occurs due to inadequate oral hygiene practices. Bacteria from food can lead to the formation of plaque, a sticky layer that accumulates on the teeth. Failure to regularly remove plaque through brushing and flossing can result in its buildup. Consequently, the gums become irritated, creating an environment for bacteria to gather and multiply.

Although early gum disease may not cause pain and can go unnoticed for a significant period, more advanced stages of periodontal disease exhibit their own set of symptoms. These may include swollen or tender gums, bleeding gums after brushing, dark or unusually bright gums, discomfort while chewing, receding gums, bad breath, the presence of pus in the mouth, or the development of gaps between teeth.

In cases where a patient has advanced periodontitis, we may recommend periodontal maintenance. This specialized cleaning procedure is typically performed on individuals with severe gum disease. It involves a deep cleaning process known as scaling and root planing, which aims to reduce the formation of gum pockets that occur as the disease progresses.

For many patients, undergoing periodontal maintenance can help preserve their natural teeth and prevent the need for extraction. However, if tooth extraction is advised, we have various solutions available to restore your smile.