What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the teeth, gums, and the bone that surrounds the teeth.
Nothing is more distracting, or destructive, to an otherwise healthy, beautiful smile than red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Periodontal disease — not decay — is the leading cause of tooth loss.
Nearly three out of four adults have some form of this disease, in which bacteria attack the structures that support the teeth, causing them to loosen. Unfortunately, most people who have periodontal disease are not aware of it because it is rarely painful, especially in its early stages. Unless you have regular dental checkups, including a periodontal exam, you may not realize there is a problem. Left untreated, periodontal disease can progress until the gums and supporting bone have been seriously affected.
Healthy Gums
Periodontal Disease
What causes periodontal disease?
The main cause of periodontal disease is the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of food particles and bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. Even with regular brushing and flossing, it may not be possible to remove all plaque, especially along the gumline. Over time, plaque that is not removed hardens into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar, which attaches to the tooth roots.
The bacteria that cause periodontal disease thrive in tartar and produce toxins that irritate the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. These toxins, combined with the body’s inflammatory response, can lead to the destruction of bone and other tissues that support the teeth. Once tartar has formed, it cannot be removed with brushing or flossing alone and requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
What are the warning signs of periodontal disease?
- Bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Soft, swollen, or tender gums
- Gums pulling away from the teeth (gum recession)
- Loose teeth
- Spaces developing between the teeth due to changes in the underlying bone
- Bone loss, which may occur even without noticeable bleeding
If you recognize any of these signs, don’t wait — learn how we diagnose periodontal disease, or schedule an appointment for a periodontal evaluation.
