What Are the Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

The most common symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, red or swollen gum tissue, persistent bad breath, receding gums, loose teeth, and changes in your bite. The condition often develops without any pain in its early stages,...

Is Scaling and Root Planing Painful?

Scaling and root planing is not painful during the procedure. Your dentist numbs the treatment area with local anesthetic before any work begins, so you’ll feel pressure and vibration but not sharp discomfort. After the numbness wears off, expect mild to...

How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?

Periodontal disease treatment depends on how far the disease has progressed. Early gum disease (gingivitis) is reversed with professional cleaning and improved home care. More advanced stages require scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that removes bacteria and...

What Is a Deep Dental Cleaning?

A deep dental cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a nonsurgical procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth roots so your gums can heal and reattach. It’s the standard first-line treatment for early to...

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and the bone that support your teeth. It starts when bacterial plaque builds up along and below the gumline, triggering inflammation that can range from mild gum irritation to serious bone damage. Nearly half of all...