Periodontal disease is an inflammatory and an immune response to bacteria hiding deep under the gums. Most of the time, your hygienists can make a solid attempt at initial therapy, then take a step back and assess how things have healed up. Unmaintained moderate to severe periodontal disease deposits may be too deep or hidden under the gum to reach so you need the assistance of a periodontist to help surgically access the root of the problem. The key to preventing periodontal disease is to take care of your gums and to see your hygienist regularly.