Plaque and tartar can contribute to problems such as tooth decay, but they are also the prime culprits behind gum disease. The plaque on your teeth causes your gums to swell, allowing more plaque and bacteria to reach below your gumline. Our dentist can remove the plaque from above and below your gumline and help your roots reattach themselves to your jaw through a treatment known as scaling and root planing in San Antonio, Texas. If you have noticed the symptoms of gum disease, call Sonrisa Dental at 210-590-4100 to plan your visit with Dr. Justin Barber.