Gum Disease Treatment in Jupiter, FL

What Is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a chronic bacterial infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth — the bone, connective tissue, and periodontal ligament that hold teeth in place. It begins when plaque and tartar accumulate below the gumline, triggering an inflammatory response that, if left unchecked, progressively destroys the supporting bone and tissue. There are two main stages:

• Gingivitis: The earliest and mildest form of gum disease. Characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing. At this stage, the damage is reversible with professional cleaning and improved home care — no bone loss has occurred yet.
• Periodontitis: When gingivitis is left untreated, it progresses to periodontitis. Bacteria spread below the gumline into deeper periodontal pockets, triggering the body's immune response and causing destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. This stage can cause teeth to loosen and eventually require extraction if not properly managed.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Persistent bad breath that doesn't resolve with brushing
• Gum recession (teeth appearing longer than they used to)
• Pus between the teeth and gums
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in your bite or how dentures fit

Many of these symptoms are painless in early stages — which is why regular dental exams are so important for early detection.

Periodontal Treatment Options at Attune Dentistry

Dr. Diaz tailors the treatment plan to the stage and severity of your gum disease:

• Prophylaxis (routine cleaning): For patients with healthy gums or very early gingivitis. Removes plaque and tartar from above and just below the gumline.
• Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning): The primary non-surgical treatment for mild to moderate periodontitis. Dr. Diaz or our hygienist carefully removes tartar buildup from deep below the gumline (scaling) and smooths the root surfaces (root planing) to discourage bacteria from reattaching and help the gum tissue heal. Typically done in 2–4 sessions by quadrant.
• Periodontal maintenance: After active treatment, patients with a history of gum disease are placed on a 3–4 month maintenance schedule to keep disease activity under control and prevent recurrence.
• Antibiotic therapy: In some cases, locally delivered antibiotics are placed directly in periodontal pockets after scaling to eliminate persistent bacteria.

The Connection Between Gum Disease and Overall Health

Research increasingly links periodontal disease to systemic health conditions. Chronic gum disease has been associated with elevated risks of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes complications, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and respiratory illness. Treating gum disease isn't just about saving your teeth — it's an investment in your overall health.