Periodontal Disease Periodontitis describes a group of conditions resulting from inflammation of the gums and other structures that support the teeth. Periodontitis is caused by bacteria found in dental plaque and is often, but not always, preceded by gingivitis. To gain access to the roots of your teeth and surrounding bone, the periodontist separates your gums from your teeth. Once the roots are thoroughly cleaned, a drill and other hand instruments are used to reshape the bone around the teeth. Bone is selectively removed to restore the normal rise and fall of the bony cup, but at a lower level. (Imagine trimming the frayed edge of a scarf: the damage is gone, but the scarf is shorter.) The gums are then placed back over the remaining bone and sutured in place. About Periodontal Disease Back to Index