Austin · Gum Disease
Gum disease treatment in Austin
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is one of the most common reasons patients are referred to a periodontist — and one of the most treatable when caught and managed properly. At our Austin practice, Dr. Jane Smith treats every stage, from early gingivitis to advanced periodontitis with bone loss.
Left untreated, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and is linked to broader health concerns. The goal of treatment is to stop the infection, save your natural teeth wherever possible, and restore healthy gums and bone.
The stages of gum disease
Gum disease progresses in stages — the earlier it’s caught, the more conservative and effective the treatment.
Gingivitis
The earliest, mildest stage. Plaque collects along the gumline and the gums become red, swollen, and bleed easily. At this point the damage is usually reversible with a professional cleaning and good home care.
Periodontitis
The infection spreads below the gumline. The gums pull away from the teeth to form pockets, and the supporting bone begins to break down. Treatment can stop the damage, though lost support doesn't return on its own.
Advanced periodontitis
The most severe stage. Deep pockets, significant bone loss, and gum recession loosen the teeth and put them at risk. Surgical and regenerative treatment is often needed to save them.
Signs you may have gum disease
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums pulling away from the teeth (recession)
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste
- Loose or shifting teeth
- Pain or sensitivity when chewing
Read the full overview of symptoms and causes on our gum disease guide.
Early treatment matters
In its earliest stage, gum disease can often be reversed — or held in check — with conservative, non-surgical care. The further it advances, the more support is lost — so an evaluation at the first signs gives you the best chance of keeping your teeth and avoiding more involved treatment.
How gum disease is treated
- 1
Non-surgical therapy
Most cases start here: scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning below the gumline) to remove plaque and tartar and let the gums heal.
- 2
Surgical therapy
When pockets are deep, minimally invasive periodontal surgery cleans the roots and reshapes tissue so the gums can reattach.
- 3
Regeneration
Bone and tissue grafting can rebuild support that periodontitis has destroyed, where the case allows.
- 4
Maintenance
Ongoing periodontal maintenance keeps the disease controlled and protects the result long-term.
See the complete treatment journey on our periodontal care page.
Serving Austin & greater Austin
We treat patients from Austin, West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, Tarrytown, Hyde Park, Zilker, and across Austin. Our office is at 123 Example Boulevard, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78701. Call (512) 555-0142 to schedule an evaluation. We also welcome patients and referrals from across Southern Texas — see areas we serve.
Bleeding gums? Don’t wait
An early evaluation is the simplest way to protect your teeth. Request a consultation and we’ll assess your gums and recommend the most conservative effective treatment.
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for a professional evaluation. Diagnosis and treatment should always be determined by a qualified dental professional based on your individual condition.