Periodontal Therapy in San Jose, CA

What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and the bone that support your teeth. It begins as gingivitis — red, puffy gums that bleed easily — and, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gumline and destroys bone. That leads to gum recession, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss.

Gum disease is common. National estimates suggest that roughly 42.2% of adults age 30 and older have some form of periodontal disease (NIDCR).

What Are the Signs of Gum Disease?

See a dentist if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bad breath that does not go away
• Gums pulling away from the teeth, making teeth look longer
• Loose teeth or a change in how your teeth fit together

These symptoms can point to gum disease, but only an exam can diagnose it. The earlier it is caught, the more of your natural smile we can protect.

Why Does Treating Gum Disease Matter?

Untreated gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. As the infection advances, it destroys the bone and tissue that anchor your teeth — and bone loss cannot be reversed once it happens.

• Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth and lead to tooth loss — and when teeth are lost, dental implants can replace them.
• Research has linked periodontal disease with conditions such as diabetes and heart disease (source).
• Gingivitis is reversible; periodontitis can be controlled but not undone — so timing matters.
• Treatment helps at any stage, and it is never too late to improve your gum health.

What Periodontal Treatments Do You Offer?

Your plan depends on how far the disease has progressed. Most gum disease is treated without surgery.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

A non-surgical cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal and reattach. Best for early to moderate gum disease; usually done in 1-2 visits with local anesthesia.

Periodontal Maintenance

After active treatment, specialized cleanings every 3-4 months keep the infection controlled and monitor pocket depths. This is what keeps results stable over time.

Advanced and Surgical Care

For deep pockets or significant bone loss, procedures such as gum grafting, pocket reduction, or bone grafting may be recommended.

Regular Cleaning vs. Periodontal Maintenance

Will Treatment Hurt? Comfort and Sedation

Most periodontal treatment is done with local anesthesia, and any soreness afterward is usually mild and short-lived. For patients who feel anxious, sedation options such as nitrous oxide or oral sedation may be available — see our sedation options in San Jose. Your dentist will discuss which comfort option fits your treatment and medical history.

What to Expect at Your Visit

1. 01

   Exam and charting

   We measure the pockets around your teeth and review X-rays to stage the disease.

2. 02

   Diagnosis and plan

   We explain what we found and outline your options and timeline.

3. 03

   Active treatment

   Deep cleaning or other prescribed care, scheduled over 1-4 visits, depending on the severity of the disease and your availability.

4. 04

   Maintenance

   We transition you to a 3-4-month cleaning schedule to protect your results.

Why Choose Dr. Douglas R. Maxson for Your Periodontal Treatment?

Diagnosing and treating gum disease has been a focus of Dr. Maxson’s care throughout his practice career. His background in periodontal health goes well beyond a general dental degree:

• Named outstanding periodontal student in his senior year at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.
• Studied under Robert Barkley, a pioneer of the preventive dentistry movement who helped bring the benefits of flossing to both the profession and the public.
• Contributed to the periodontal continuum at the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry for ten years, studying with the chair of its periodontics department.
• Completed postgraduate study in the periodontics and implant continuum at the USC School of Dentistry.
• Directs the San Jose Implant Continuum, where he teaches periodontal grafting and implant periodontics.

Because his practice emphasizes preventive maintenance alongside both surgical and nonsurgical care, his patients tend to keep their gums healthy over the long term. Meet Dr. Douglas R. Maxson.

Cost, Insurance, and Financing

The cost of periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and which procedures you need. Dental insurance often covers a portion of periodontal care, and our team can help you understand your benefits before treatment begins. We also offer financing options such as CareCredit and an in-office patient membership plan — see insurance and financing. We will review your estimated costs with you before any treatment starts — no surprises.

Ready to Protect Your Smile?

Get a clear picture of your gum health and a plan to keep your teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions