Healthy gums, healthy smile.

What is gum (periodontal) disease?

It's an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place, caused by plaque bacteria that build up along and beneath the gumline. The early stage, gingivitis, causes red, puffy gums that bleed easily. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth, bone is lost, and teeth can eventually loosen. Research has also linked gum disease to heart disease, diabetes, and other whole-body health concerns.

What are the warning signs?

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss are the most common early signal, and they're never normal. Watch also for gums that look red or swollen, persistent bad breath, gums that seem to be receding, teeth that look longer than they used to, sensitivity, or a change in how your teeth fit together when you bite. Because early gum disease rarely hurts, regular checkups are the most reliable way to catch it.

How is gum disease diagnosed?

During your exam, we gently measure the small pockets between your gums and teeth with a tiny probe. Healthy pockets are shallow; deeper pockets suggest infection and tissue loss. Digital x-rays show whether the supporting bone has been affected. Together, these give us a clear picture of how far things have progressed and what treatment makes sense.

How is gum disease treated?

Gingivitis often reverses with a thorough professional cleaning and better home care. For periodontitis, the standard first treatment is a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing, where we carefully remove tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooth the root surfaces so the gums can reattach. This is done with numbing and is typically finished over one or two visits. Ongoing maintenance cleanings every three to four months keep the infection from returning.

Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?

Many dental plans cover periodontal treatment, at least in part, because it's considered medically necessary. Exactly how much depends on your plan and the extent of treatment needed, so we'll verify your benefits and give you a personalized quote before starting. Patients without insurance can look at our in-house dental plan and our financing options.

When should you book a gum evaluation?

If your gums bleed, feel tender, or seem to be pulling back, don't wait for your next routine visit. Gum disease is far easier to manage early, and the bone you lose to periodontitis doesn't grow back on its own. A quick evaluation at our Jupiter office can tell you exactly where you stand.