Gum disease, including gingivitis and more advanced periodontitis, is a common condition that damages the tissues supporting the teeth. This study looks at how gum disease affects specific proteins inside gum tissue cells that help control how cells communicate between their internal structures and clean out damaged material (a process called autophagy). Researchers will collect small gum tissue samples from people with healthy gums, gingivitis, or periodontitis during dental procedures they are already having. These samples will be tested to measure the levels of three proteins (called PTPIP51, VAPB, and LC3B) and calcium. In a separate laboratory experiment, gum cells will be exposed to a substance made by bacteria commonly linked to gum disease, to see how these same proteins respond. The goal of this study is to better understand the biological changes that happen in gum tissue as gum disease develops, which may help guide future research into new treatments.