Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.  There are two major classifications of periodontal disease.  Gingivits involves the gum tissues only.  Periodontitis is more severe and results in the loss of bone around the teeth. 

The effects of periodontitis can not be reversed.  However, with appropriate treatment the disease process can often be dramatically slowed or even stopped.  Treatment involves thorough and frequent cleaning of the root structures of your teeth, and the occasional use of local or systemic antibiotics.  For patients in need of addition treatment, we can provide referrals to a periodontist, a dental professional who specializes in the treatment of this disease.