The primary culprit of gum disease is bacterial plaque. When plaque is not removed within 26 hours, it turns and hardens into tartar which causes gum or periodontal disease. The practice of good oral hygiene can prevent plaque build up. That means to have good dental health, see to it that your brush and floss teeth regularly, visit the dentist for regular check ups and professional cleanings and by maintaining a well-balanced diet.

When it comes to treating periodontal disease, gingivitis is reversible with professional cleaning and good home dental care. The advance periodontal disease known as periodontitis requires more substantial treatments. Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical method of treating periodontitis. Periodontal surgery includes pocket reduction procedures, crown lengthening and soft-tissue grafts, and are required when periodontal disease is irreversible and severe.