Periodontal treatment is used to combat periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Periodontal disease is a process in which bacteria, mucus, and debris accumulate and form plaque and tartar (calculus) on your tooth. The plaque / calculus sits between your tooth and gums. Periodontal disease can range from inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) to a more serious form in which the bone and gums recede. This in turn leads to teeth becoming mobile and eventually falling out. 

Progression of this disease is painless and exactly why it is recommended to visit Dr. Veath every 6 months. Often times, you are not aware of the progression. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. There are several factors that contribute to its progression.These include smoking, diabetes, and genetics. If you have been diagnosed with periodontitis, treatment will be a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). The point of the treatment is to stop the disease progression and restore tooth support, if possible.