Health Information

Information is presented on various health conditions, treatments and procedures with the goal of empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health with informed decisions about their care. This provides patients with knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand conditions and treatment plans that affect them.

The effort ultimately leads to positive experiences with healthcare providers, to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. A leading cause of tooth loss, it is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. Howev...

Periodontal Disease FAQs

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. It is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed ...

Periodontics

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the teeth's supporting structures, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation, including gum disease.

Periodontic Specialties

Periodontics typically ...

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. It causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets in which the bacteria can grow, damaging bone that supports teeth. When periodontitis is left untreated,...

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a treatment usually performed during the early stages of periodontal disease to help remove plaque and tartar that has built up beneath the gum line. This procedure is considered a deep cleaning, and may be performed to prevent the disease from progressing...