Periodontal Disease: Causes, Treatment Options, and Questions to Ask

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is inflammation and infection of the tissues that support the teeth. It often begins when plaque builds up along the gumline and hardens into tartar. A dental professional can assess signs of gum disease and explain appropriate options; treatment depends on how extensive it is. This guide summarizes what to know before a conversation with a dentist.

How gum disease develops and what to notice

Plaque contains bacteria. When it is not regularly removed, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with brushing alone. The resulting inflammation can affect the gums and, if disease progresses, the tissues and bone supporting the teeth.

Gums that are red, swollen, tender, or bleed easily can be signs to discuss with a dental professional. Other possible signs include gums pulling away from teeth, persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity or looseness, and pain while chewing. Some people may not notice symptoms, so an examination can help assess gum health.

Tobacco use is an important risk factor. Other factors associated with gum disease include diabetes, older age, genetics, some health conditions and medicines, and hormonal changes. These factors do not determine an individual diagnosis, but sharing relevant health information can help a dental professional assess the situation.

How a dental professional evaluates gum health

An evaluation may include looking for inflammation, bleeding, and changes in the gumline, as well as measuring the spaces around teeth with a small probe. The dental professional may examine the teeth, ask about medical history and risk factors, or use X-rays to assess supporting bone. The findings help determine whether gum disease is present and how extensive it may be.

For background on symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment, see the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research guide to gum disease.

Treatment depends on the extent of disease

The general goal of treatment is to control the infection. Early gum disease related to plaque buildup may improve with consistent daily brushing and flossing. When periodontal disease is present, a dental professional may recommend professional care. One option that may be discussed is scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning of affected tooth surfaces. Depending on the findings, other approaches, including medication or surgical treatment for advanced disease, may be considered.

These are general treatment options, not a statement that every practice provides each service or that a particular option is right for every person. Ask the dental professional to explain what the examination showed, why an option is being considered, what alternatives exist, and what home care and follow-up would involve.

Prepare for a useful dental conversation

• Note any gum bleeding, tenderness, changes in the gumline, bad breath, sensitivity, or discomfort, including when you first noticed it.
• Bring an up-to-date list of health conditions and medicines, and mention tobacco use or other relevant health changes.
• Ask what the gum measurements and any imaging indicate, and whether the findings suggest early or more advanced disease.
• Ask which treatment options are appropriate, what each is intended to address, and what ongoing home care and professional follow-up are recommended.

Cedar Lake Dental is located at 1205 Lake Road in La Marque, Texas. Visit the Cedar Lake Dental website for practice information.

Business features on this publication may be part of marketing services. A business reference does not mean the article is a personal visit, an independent review, or written or reviewed by the featured clinician.