Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves the destruction of the bone that surrounds teeth called alveolar bone. It can be associated with bleeding and recession of the gums. With diminished bone levels, the teeth have less support. Advanced periodontal disease eventually leads to mobile teeth that can fall out. There are also many scientific studies that link periodontal disease to systemic illnesses such as diabetes.

There are many treatment modalities that can reduce the inflammation associated with periodontal disease and prevent further bone loss. These include scaling and root planing to remove the bacterial endotoxins from the root surface in addition to calculus and plaque. There are also antibacterial medications that can be applied to the area to reduce the amount of pathogenic bacteria.