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In checking for periodontal disease, a dental professional will measure the spaces between the gums and the teeth with a periodontal probe. This is a small instrument that resembles a ruler.

X-rays of the mouth are also likely. This will help reveal the extent of damage to the supporting bone around the teeth and gums. Researchers have found that dental x-rays may in some cases also reveal early warning signs of carotid artery disease and stroke, and osteoporosis.

People with diabetes should be checked for periodontal disease at least every six months. Many dentists schedule diabetic patients more often, such as every three months. Children with type 1 diabetes are particularly vulnerable to early-onset periodontal disease as they reach adolescence.

Treatments for periodontal disease range from at-home care to surgery, depending on the nature of the infection. Early-stage disease (gingivitis) can usually be reversed through good maintenance. Regular brushing and flossing, and visits to a dental professional at least twice yearly, can help prevent this infection.

Periodontitis cannot be treated or reversed with simple brushing and flossing. People with the condition should see a periodontist (specialists in gum disease) or general dentist for treatment.

Bacteria that form in the spaces between the teeth and under the gum line are treated by using small dental scalers. This is called debridement, sometimes known as scaling or root planing. As part of this process, smooth surfaces are created on the damaged root surfaces of the teeth that help healing gum tissues to tighten around the teeth. Debridement is often completed over a series of visits.

Antibiotics and antibacterial mouth rinses are also often prescribed.

In severe cases of periodontitis, gum surgery may be needed to reshape or replace tissues. The types of surgery include:

• Crown lengthening, which removes gum tissue and sometimes bone to expose more of the tooth
  
  
• Gingival flap surgery, which temporarily separates the gums from teeth so the practitioner has access to dental roots and bone for removal of inflamed tissue, plague and tartar
  
  
• Gingivectomy, which removes gum tissue to eliminate pockets or reduce excess gum tissue around teeth
  
  
• Soft-tissue graft, which removes tissue from the palate or another area and adds it to an area where gums have receded
  
  
• Bone surgery or grafting, which replaces, rebuilds or reshapes the bone that supports teeth.
  

Patients who have been treated for periodontal disease must regularly brush and floss, or the condition will return.