Gum disease treatment (periodontal therapy): Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is caused by bacteria in plaque.  If not removed, this bacteria builds up, infecting your teeth, gums and eventually the bone that supports your teeth - a common cause of tooth loss.  This disease has three stages of progression: gingivitis, periodontitis, and advanced periodontitis; the longer the disease has to advance, the more damage it causes.  With advancements in detection, regular check ups and treatment, we can discover periodontal disease early and begin treatment before it develops further.