Periodontal Disease

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious, chronic, bacterial infection that, affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.  If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. 

Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth.  It begins when the bacteria in the plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.

• In the mildest form of the disease—gingivitis—the gums redden, swell and bleed easily.  There is usually little or no discomfort.  Usually caused by inadequate oral hygiene, gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
• Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis.  With time, plaque can spread below the gum line.  Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums, stimulating a chronic inflammatory response.  The body turns on itself, eventually breaking down and destroying the tissues and bones that support the teeth. 

Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected.  As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed.  Eventually teeth can become loose and may have to be removed. 95 percent of adults who lose teeth lose them to gum disease.

How serious is periodontal disease?

Right now, periodontal disease affects an estimated 56 million Americans and is about as widespread as the common cold. In addition, the bacteria that cause periodontal disease and its toxic by-products has also been linked to the development of clogged arteries and blood clots.  This means people with periodontal disease may be at increased risk of a heart attack or stroke.

Periodontal disease has also been associated with Alzheimer’s disease, premature births and worsening diabetes. 

Treating gum disease early can help decrease your risk of heart disease and stroke and prevent tooth loss.

What are the causes of gum disease?

The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth.  Other factors that affect the health of your gums include:

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

In its early stages, periodontal disease may have few symptoms.  As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

What should I do if I think I have periodontal disease?

If you suffer from tender, red, swollen or bleeding gums, call us today for an appointment to evaluate your condition.