For some patients, the persistence of gingivitis (inflammation of gums) has lingered for a long enough time that the structures designed to support teeth (bone and gums) have begun to weaken. This loss of supporting structures is called periodontis (gum disease) and can lead to receding gums, loose teeth and eventually the loss of teeth if left unchecked. Patients are typically evaluated for periodontis at their exams and then at future cleanings and dental procedures. Patients who are found to have periodontis undergo what is commonly known as a deep cleaning and then are put on a monitoring and cleaning schedule that is more frequent than typical patients.