Gum disease is common, and you become more like to suffer from it the older you get. A quarter of people over the age of 40 have experienced it to some degree, with smokers being seven times more susceptible. Periodontists treat problems that occur within the soft tissues, and it’s soft tissue treatment you need once your gum disease has reached an advanced state. It’s also worth bearing in mind that some medical conditions can have a negative effect on the ability of tissues to heal. For instance, diabetics with gum discomfort should seek advice from a periodontist as soon as possible.