Periodontal disease occurs when bacteria collects in the mouth, usually due to improper brushing and flossing. When the bacteria is allowed to harden and become tartar, it can lead to gingivitis and eventually periodontitis.
Gingivitis — the first stage of gum disease — is caused by poor oral hygiene, and is characterized by gum inflammation. Fortunately, this condition can often be successfully reversed and treated swiftly — especially when caught in its early stages. Our dental team has the tools and resources to minimize gum inflammation and effectively remove tartar from above and below the gumline; however, if the condition progresses, you may require more invasive treatment.
Periodontitis is a more serious condition characterized by deep pockets that form between the gums and teeth as inflamed tissue pulls away from the teeth. If left unaddressed, the infection will spread to underlying tissues, leading to the deterioration of supporting bone and soft tissues. Treatment for periodontitis aims to remove tartar and eliminate periodontal pockets through cleanings, antibiotics, and in some cases, surgery.
Gum tissue can pull away from your teeth, exposing underlying roots and increasing sensitivity.
Advanced periodontal disease can result in permanent damage to the jawbone.
Infected gums can cause teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. In fact, gum disease is the number-one cause of tooth loss in adults.
Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of other health complications that concern the whole body, including heart disease, stroke, Alzheimers, and diabetes. Our practice is here to help you avoid these serious effects of unchecked gum disease.
If you experience any of these symptoms, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible:
There are a few simple oral hygiene practices you can do at home to prevent gum disease development, such as using fluoride toothpaste. However, your general dentist or a hygienist may recommend a consultation with a periodontist if they find signs of periodontal disease through the course of a checkup or other dental care appointment.
You may also decide to see a periodontist on your own. We don’t require referrals, so we invite you to get in touch with us directly if you are experiencing these symptoms.
The team at our periodontist’s office in Raleigh, NC , offers a range of solutions designed to address gum disease at any stage:
Choosing a periodontist for gum disease treatment is akin to visiting a cardiologist for a heart condition. As specialists, periodontists have advanced skills, techniques, and expertise in diagnosing and treating all stages of gum disease.
We provide all of the information you need to make an informed decision about your oral health and are proud to be the leading periodontal practice so many in our community turn to for excellence in gum disease treatment.
Areas We Serve: Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Apex, Wake Forest, and the greater Triangle communities.
🏆 Voted Best Periodontist in Raleigh (2025 & 2026 Midtown Magazine Diamond Awards)
📜 Board-Certified & National Examiner: 1 of only 52 Board Examiners serving the American Board of Periodontology
🎓 Academic Leader: Adjunct Professor (and former Director of Periodontology & Implantology) at UNC Chapel Hill School of Dentistry
🔬 Published Researcher: NIH-funded researcher and author on dental implants and regenerative medicine
🏅 Diplomate & ITI Fellow: American Academy of Periodontology & International Team for Implantology
“Dr. Morelli brings university-level precision, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate care to patients across Raleigh, Cary, Durham, and Chapel Hill.”
Take the next steps to better oral health. Request a consultation by contacting us online or by calling our Raleigh, NC, practice today:
