Periodontics /
Gum disease treatment in Weston, FL
Bleeding, swollen or receding gums are not normal. We diagnose and treat gum disease at every stage, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis.
- Early stageGingivitis can be reversed
- Advanced stagePeriodontitis can be controlled
- Main treatmentDeep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
- MaintenanceCleanings every 3 to 4 months
What is gum disease?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums and the bone that hold your teeth in place. It is caused by bacteria in plaque, the sticky film that builds up on teeth every day. When plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar and the gums become inflamed.
- Gingivitis is the early stage. Gums are red, swollen and bleed easily, but the bone is not affected yet. It can be fully reversed with a professional cleaning and better home care.
- Periodontitis is the advanced stage. The gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria collect, and the bone starts to break down. It cannot be reversed, but it can be controlled so you keep your teeth.
Warning signs
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums pulling back from the teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose teeth or a change in your bite
Gum disease is often painless, so many people do not know they have it. We check for it at every checkup by measuring the space between your gums and teeth. Pockets of 4 millimeters or deeper are a sign of gum disease.
What causes it
The most common causes are not brushing and flossing well enough and going too long between professional cleanings. Some health conditions, such as diabetes, also raise the risk. Untreated gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, and research has linked it to heart disease and diabetes.
How we treat it
Gum evaluation
We measure your gum pockets and take X-rays to see how far the disease has progressed.
Cleaning or deep cleaning
Gingivitis is usually treated with a thorough cleaning. Periodontitis needs a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove tartar below the gumline, done with local anesthesia for comfort.
Follow-up
We re-measure your gums a few weeks later to confirm they are healing.
Periodontal maintenance
Most patients then come in for cleanings every 3 to 4 months instead of every 6 to keep the disease under control.
Very advanced cases may need gum or bone grafting. If you need specialist care, we will help coordinate your referral.
How to prevent gum disease
- Brush twice a day with a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste, and replace your brush every 2 to 3 months.
- Floss once a day, curving the floss around each tooth at the gumline. Use a floss threader under bridges.
- Keep your regular checkups and cleanings.
Worried about your gums? Book an evaluation.
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Frequently asked questions
Can gum disease be reversed?
Early gum disease (gingivitis) can be fully reversed with a professional cleaning and good home care. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) cannot be reversed, but deep cleaning and regular maintenance can stop it from getting worse.
Is gum disease treatment painful?
Deep cleanings are done with local anesthesia, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Some tenderness and sensitivity for a few days afterward is normal.
Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are usually a sign of inflammation from plaque, the first stage of gum disease. Healthy gums do not bleed. Schedule a visit so we can find the cause.
Does insurance cover gum disease treatment?
Most plans cover deep cleanings when gum disease is diagnosed, usually as a basic procedure rather than a preventive one. We will check your benefits before treatment.
Related / Treatments patients also ask about
All gum care treatments
Visit us /
Book your visit today
Inside Bonaventure Town Center, next to Shine on Yoga. Serving Weston, Southwest Ranches, Davie, Pembroke Pines and Sunrise.
- Hours
- Mon–Thu 8:30 AM–6:00 PM
Fri–Sun closed - Phone
- (954) 659-9669