Periodontal Health Care Protecting Your Gums and Smile

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Periodontal care focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease while maintaining the bone and tissues that support your teeth. Below is a clear, unified overview of periodontal disease, maintenance, diagnosis, and treatment, organized to help you understand what matters most and what steps keep your smile strong.

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease means “around the tooth.” It affects the gums and the bone that hold your teeth in place.

• Caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that hardens into calculus (tartar) within 24 hours if not removed
• Leads to red, swollen, and bleeding gums
• Often painless in early stages, which is why many people do not realize they have it
• One of the leading causes of tooth loss

Research also suggests links between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and pregnancy complications. Smoking significantly increases risk.

What Are the Warning Signs of Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease does not always hurt at first, but your body gives warning signs.

• Bleeding gums, even with gentle brushing or flossing
• Red, puffy, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
• New spaces between teeth
• Loose teeth
• Pus around teeth or gums, indicating infection

If you notice any of these symptoms, early evaluation is essential.

How Is Periodontal Disease Diagnosed?

Periodontal disease is diagnosed during a periodontal examination, which should be part of every routine dental visit.

• A small instrument called a periodontal probe measures gum pocket depth
• Healthy pockets measure 3 millimeters or less and do not bleed
• Deeper pockets, bleeding, inflammation, or tooth mobility indicate disease

Based on findings, your condition may be classified as:

• Gingivitis

  • Early stage

  • Gums are inflamed and bleed easily

  • No bone loss

• Periodontitis

  • Plaque hardens into tartar

  • Gums pull away from teeth

  • Bone loss may begin

• Advanced Periodontitis

  • Significant bone and tissue destruction

  • Teeth may loosen or require removal

What Treatments Are Used for Periodontal Disease?

Treatment depends on the severity and stage of the disease.

• Early gingivitis

  • One or two professional cleanings

  • Improved home care instructions

• Moderate to advanced disease

  • Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)

  • Removes plaque, tartar, and toxins above and below the gum line

  • Smooths root surfaces to help gums heal and tighten

• Advanced cases

  • Medications or medicated rinses may be recommended

  • Periodontal surgery may be needed if pockets do not heal

  • Referral to a Periodontist may be advised

What Is Periodontal Maintenance and Why Is It Important?

After active periodontal treatment, ongoing care is essential to prevent recurrence.

• Usually scheduled four times per year

• Focuses on areas difficult to clean at home

• Helps keep bacteria under control and gums healthy

Periodontal maintenance visits typically include:

• Measuring pocket depths to monitor healing
• Removal of plaque and calculus above and below the gum line
• Review of oral hygiene techniques and tools
• Evaluation of existing fillings and crowns
• Examination for tooth decay
• Oral cancer screening
• Teeth polishing to remove surface stains

Good daily home care combined with regular periodontal maintenance is the key to long-term gum health.

How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Gum Disease?

Protecting your gums starts with simple, consistent habits.

• Brush and floss daily
• Use recommended oral hygiene aids
• Eat a balanced, tooth-friendly diet
• Avoid tobacco products
• Keep regular dental and periodontal appointments

When Should You Seek Periodontal Care?

If you notice bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or loose teeth, it is time to schedule an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent tooth loss and support overall health.

Healthy gums support healthy teeth and a confident smile. Regular care and timely treatment make all the difference.