Periodontics is the dental specialty involved with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal gum diseases. The disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, this infection can lead to tooth loss. Affecting one tooth or many teeth, it begins when the bacteria in plaque (the colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed and bleed easily. Persistent bad breath may also accompany these symptoms.

Depending on the progression of the disease, we will apply non-surgical periodontal treatments, such as scaling and root planning. These procedures clean the tooth and root surfaces to remove plaque and tartar, and smooth the tooth root to remove bacterial toxins. We may also flush the periodontal pockets with antibiotics or prescribe oral medications or a special anti-germ mouth rinse.

In severe cases of gum disease, referral to a periodontal specialist may be necessary.