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Gum Disease Treatment
We Treat Gum Disease in Mesa, AZ

What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It starts when bacteria in plaque build up along and under your gumline. Left untreated, these bacteria can irritate your gums, damage the bone supporting your teeth, and eventually lead to tooth loss. Gum disease develops in the following stages:
- Gingivitis – The earliest stage, this is marked by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. It’s typically reversible with good care.
- Periodontitis – This is a more advanced stage in which the infection spreads below the gumline. It can damage the bone and tissue supporting your teeth.
Recognizing the Causes of Gum Disease
Several factors can raise your risk of developing gum disease, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Skipping brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up and harden into tartar, which irritates the gums.
- Smoking or Tobacco Use – Tobacco weakens your immune system, making it harder for your gums to fight off infection.
- Genetics – Some people are simply more prone to gum disease, even with good oral care habits.
- Certain Medications – Some drugs reduce saliva flow or cause abnormal gum tissue growth.
- Health Conditions – Diabetes, hormonal changes, and autoimmune diseases can all make you more susceptible to gum infections.
Gum Disease Signs and Symptoms
Gum disease doesn’t always cause pain in its early stages, which is why many people don’t notice it right away. Watch for these warning signs:
- Red or Swollen Gums – Healthy gums should be pink and firm, not puffy or discolored.
- Bleeding While Brushing or Flossing – This is often one of the first noticeable symptoms.
- Persistent Bad Breath – Bacteria buildup can cause an odor that doesn’t go away, even after brushing.
- Receding Gums – Your teeth may start to look longer as gum tissue pulls away.
- Loose or Shifting Teeth – This is a sign of advanced gum disease affecting the bone structure.
How We Diagnose Gum Disease
Our Gum Disease Treatment Options
The right gum disease treatment depends on how advanced the infection is. We’ll match you with the option that aligns with your stage of gum disease for the best results:
- Scaling and Root Planing – This is a deep cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the tooth root to help the gums reattach.
- Antibiotic Therapy – We may prescribe medication that targets bacteria causing the infection. It’s often used alongside deep cleaning.
- Gum Disease Maintenance Visits – More frequent cleanings will keep periodontal disease under control after the initial treatment.
- Referral for Advanced Care – For severe cases, we may refer you to a periodontist for surgical treatment options.
Preventing Gum Disease After Treatment
Once your gum disease is under control, keeping it that way is a priority. Here’s how to protect your progress:
- Brush Twice Daily – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clear away plaque.
- Floss Every Day – Flossing removes bacteria and food particles your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly – During cleanings and checkups, our team can spot issues early.
- Avoid Tobacco Products – Quitting smoking significantly improves your gum health and healing.
- Manage Health Conditions – Keeping conditions like diabetes under control supports better overall gum health.
Contact Us for Periodontal Treatment Today
FAQ About Gum Disease Treatment
Does Gum Disease Always Cause Bleeding?
While bleeding gums are a common sign of gum disease, some patients don’t notice any bleeding, especially in the early stages. That’s why routine dental checkups are so important for identifying the issue early.
How Is Gum Disease Different From Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease. It causes gum irritation and inflammation, but hasn’t yet damaged the bone or deep tissue. Gingivitis treatment is necessary to prevent the problem from progressing into periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.
How Often Should I Have My Gums Checked?
Most people should have their gums checked at least twice a year during routine dental visits. If you have a history of gum disease or other risk factors, your dentist may recommend more frequent checkups.
Can Gum Disease Come Back After Treatment?
Gum disease can return if plaque and bacteria build up again, so you should always keep up with maintenance visits and your daily oral hygiene habits.
Does Gum Disease Treatment Hurt?
Most gum disease treatments cause only minimal discomfort. If needed, we’ll use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
