Periodontitis is caused by microorganisms that adhere to and grow on the tooth’s surfaces, along with an overly aggressive immune response against these microorganisms. A diagnosis of periodontitis is established by inspecting the soft gum tissues around the teeth (i.e., a clinical examination) and by evaluating the patient’s x-rays films (i.e. a radiographic examination), to determine the amount of bone loss around the teeth.

The image below explains how severe Peridontal Disease can look. Unfortunately, this before patient image is NOT uncommon. Patients who go untreated with a dental cleaning for a long period of time can develop this.  Many patients can’t see the inside of their teeth, but when they finally see the magnitude of delayed treatment, they are relieved to finally remove this bacteria and tartar from their mouth. In fact, many patients say that not only does their mouth look good, their breath is significantly improved too.

Patient with bacteria, or tartar build up with periodontal disease, a before and after celebration for the patient. Wow… now that’s what we call magnificent treatment!