What is Gum Disease Treatment?
Non-surgical scaling and root planning is the gold standard treatment for Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease). This disease is a localized infection of the structures around the teeth. These structures include the gums, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. In the earliest stage of periodontal disease, gingivitis, the infection affects the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved. Without treatment the gum tissue and the bone are destroyed, and the teeth become mobile and fall out.
What can this office do to help patients?
Our Pasadena, Texas Dental office has extensive experience treating patients with gum infections. This care may involve deep scaling (cleaning), gingival (gum) surgery and the placement of dental implants.
What causes gum disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by bacteria in dental plaque. Plaque is the sticky substance that forms on your teeth soon after you have brushed.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Symptoms include:
- Red or swollen gums
- Receding gums or longer-appearing teeth
- Tender or bleeding gums
- Bad breath that won’t go away
- Sensitive teeth
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
Periodontal Disease: A Serious Threat to Your Oral Health
Periodontal disease—often called gum disease—is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gum tissue and the bone that supports your teeth. It begins quietly, usually starting as mild gum inflammation, but if left untreated, it can turn into a destructive condition with long-term consequences.
The earliest stage, gingivitis, occurs when plaque accumulates along the gumline, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding during brushing. At this point, the damage is reversible. However, when plaque hardens into tartar and bacteria spread deeper beneath the gums, the condition progresses into periodontal disease, which cannot be reversed—only controlled.
Once periodontal disease develops, the gums begin to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where harmful bacteria thrive. These bacteria attack the supporting bone and connective tissue, slowly eroding the foundation that keeps your teeth stable. Over time, this leads to receding gums, loose teeth, chronic bad breath, and eventually tooth loss. Periodontal disease has also been linked to serious systemic health issues, including cardiovascular problems, diabetes complications, and chronic inflammation throughout the body.
The most concerning aspect of periodontal disease is that it often develops without pain. Many patients do not realize how advanced the disease is until significant damage has already occurred. That’s why early detection during routine dental cleanings and exams is essential.
Professional treatment—such as scaling and root planing to remove bacteria below the gumline—can halt the progression of the disease and help the gums begin to heal. Consistent homecare and regular dental visits are critical to keeping periodontal disease under control.
Protecting your gum health is vital to preserving your smile, your comfort, and your overall wellness. Periodontal disease is serious, but with timely attention and proper care, its most damaging effects can be prevented.
If you notice any signs of gum disease, call our office at 713-941-8261. It does not matter if you have not been to the dentist in forever. We are here to help. Our dental office is located at 3421 Burke Rd Ste A, Pasadena, Texas 77504.