What is the main cause of periodontal disease?
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong smile, but when bacteria begin to build up below the gumline, they can lead to a serious condition known as periodontal disease. Also called gum disease, this infection damages the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth. Without treatment, it can result in tooth loss and impact your overall health.
At Harmony Family Dentistry in Carson City, Dr. Vedran and Dr. Justine Dupanovic provide gentle, effective periodontal treatment using advanced laser technology. Understanding what causes gum disease and how it can be prevented is the first step toward maintaining lifelong oral health.
The main cause of periodontal disease
The leading cause of periodontal disease is plaque buildup on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms when food particles, saliva, and sugars combine. If it is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be cleaned professionally.
When tartar accumulates, it irritates the gums, causing inflammation known as gingivitis—the earliest stage of gum disease. If left untreated, this inflammation can spread deeper, forming pockets of bacteria between the teeth and gums. Over time, the infection damages the bone and tissue that hold teeth in place, progressing into periodontitis.
Contributing factors
While plaque is the primary cause, several other factors can increase the risk or speed of periodontal disease:
- Poor oral hygiene – Inconsistent brushing and flossing allow bacteria to thrive.
- Smoking and tobacco use – Tobacco restricts blood flow and weakens gum tissue, making healing difficult.
- Genetics – Some people are more susceptible to gum disease even with good care.
- Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can increase gum sensitivity and inflammation.
- Medical conditions – Diabetes and autoimmune disorders can affect the body’s ability to fight infection.
- Stress – Chronic stress weakens the immune system and can make gum disease harder to control.
- Poor diet – Lack of nutrients, especially vitamin C, can slow healing and increase inflammation.
These factors often work together, which is why regular dental checkups are essential to catch gum disease early.
Early signs of periodontal disease
Gum disease can begin quietly, with few symptoms at first. Recognizing the early warning signs can help prevent serious damage.
Common symptoms include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing
- Persistent bad breath
- Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Sensitivity when chewing
- Pus or swelling around the gums
Even if discomfort is mild, these are signs of infection that should not be ignored. Early treatment at this stage can completely reverse gingivitis and prevent further damage.
Stages of periodontal disease
- Gingivitis – The earliest stage, caused by plaque buildup. Gums may bleed easily but there is no bone loss yet.
- Early periodontitis – The infection starts to spread below the gumline, and small pockets form between the gums and teeth.
- Moderate periodontitis – Bacteria begin destroying supporting bone, leading to gum recession and mild tooth mobility.
- Advanced periodontitis – The tissue and bone that support the teeth are severely damaged, often resulting in tooth loss or the need for surgical intervention.
At Harmony Family Dentistry, the focus is on catching and treating gum disease as early as possible through comfortable, minimally invasive care.
How periodontal disease is treated
Treatment depends on the severity of the infection. The goal is always to remove bacteria, promote healing, and prevent further progression.
1. Professional cleaning and scaling
For early stages, a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gums. This helps the tissue reattach to the teeth and stops the infection from spreading.
2. Laser periodontal therapy
Harmony Family Dentistry uses gentle laser treatment to target and remove infected tissue with precision. The laser sterilizes the area, reduces inflammation, and stimulates healing—without the need for cutting or stitches. Patients often experience faster recovery and less discomfort than with traditional surgery.
3. Medication and maintenance
Antibiotic gels or rinses may be prescribed to control bacteria and inflammation. Patients are also encouraged to maintain consistent oral hygiene at home and return for routine checkups every few months.
4. Surgical treatment for advanced cases
If the infection has progressed significantly, surgical procedures such as flap surgery or bone grafting may be necessary to restore gum and bone support. Harmony Family Dentistry provides compassionate, personalized care for these complex cases.
For related solutions, read our blog on night guards and how they help protect your teeth.
Preventing periodontal disease
Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are the most effective ways to prevent gum disease. A few key steps include:
- Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to remove food particles and plaque between teeth
- Visiting the dentist every six months for exams and cleanings
- Avoiding smoking or using tobacco products
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C
- Managing stress and maintaining healthy sleep patterns
Harmony Family Dentistry emphasizes preventive care to keep patients from ever reaching the advanced stages of gum disease.
Why periodontal health matters
Periodontal disease affects more than just your mouth. Studies show that gum infections are linked to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Bacteria from the gums can enter the bloodstream, increasing inflammation throughout the body.
By maintaining healthy gums, you not only preserve your teeth but also protect your overall well-being.
Why choose Harmony Family Dentistry for periodontal care
Harmony Family Dentistry offers advanced periodontal treatment in Carson City using laser technology for comfortable and precise results. The husband-and-wife team combines technical expertise with a gentle touch, ensuring every patient feels supported and informed.
The practice accepts all major PPO insurances and provides personalized care for gum health, prevention, and long-term maintenance.
Visit Harmony Family Dentistry in Carson City
If you notice bleeding gums or signs of infection, visit Harmony Family Dentistry for an evaluation. The team provides comprehensive periodontal care in a modern, welcoming office environment.
The clinic is conveniently located near Roop & Stewart Bus Stop (short walk), Frontier Plaza with Raley’s Supermarket, CVS Pharmacy, and Subway (2-min drive), and Winnie Lane Center with San Marcos Grill, McDonald’s, and Denny’s (2-min drive).
Book a free consultation
Harmony Family Dentistry offers free consultations for patients concerned about gum disease or oral health. During your visit, your dentist will assess your gums, discuss symptoms, and recommend a tailored treatment plan to restore your smile.
Final thoughts
The main cause of periodontal disease is plaque buildup, but factors like stress, smoking, and medical conditions can make it worse. The good news is that gum disease is preventable and treatable when caught early. With advanced laser therapy and a caring team, Harmony Family Dentistry helps Carson City residents protect their gums and preserve their natural smiles for life.
