The Essentials
What it is.
Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the tissue around your teeth, caused by plaque buildup along and below the gumline. Because it’s nearly pain-free, most people don’t know they have it — which is why we measure for it at every checkup.
It has two stages. Gingivitis — red, swollen gums that bleed easily — is fully reversible with treatment and good home care. Left alone, it advances to periodontitis, where the bone supporting your teeth is permanently damaged and teeth loosen or are lost.
Warning Signs
Sound familiar?
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the gumline
- Persistent bad breath
- Gums pulling away from teeth, or teeth that feel loose
The Process
What to expect.
- Measure & diagnose
At every exam we measure the pocket depth between tooth and gum — the objective test for periodontal health.
- Deep cleaning
Scaling and root planing removes bacteria and toxins below the gumline, where a toothbrush can’t reach.
- Maintenance
A personalized recall schedule keeps the infection from re-establishing — this is a managed condition, and it stays managed.
Real Results
Before & after.
A periodontal therapy case from Dr. Paulson’s files is being prepared for this page.
Every case on this site is a real Arbor Dental patientGood To Know
Questions, answered.
What raises my risk?
Smoking, diabetes, certain medications (including some blood-pressure drugs and oral contraceptives), and family history.
Is it reversible?
Gingivitis, yes — completely. Periodontitis can be arrested and managed, but destroyed bone doesn’t grow back. Timing is everything.
Does it affect the rest of my health?
Gum disease is linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes complications — treating it is genuinely whole-body care.
Ready when you are.
New patients are welcomed with an unhurried, comprehensive first visit — photographs, a conversation about your goals, and a plan you'll understand completely.
Schedule a Consultation