Periodontal Disease

About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal treatment

Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance.

Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums and the regions of your jawbone, which hold your teeth in place.  Retaining your teeth is directly dependent on proper periodontal care and maintenance.  Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting.  When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red.  In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out.  These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak; they also spoil your smile.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons, which irritate the gums.  They may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. However, don’t be fooled. With periodontal disease, bleeding, redness and swelling do not have to be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease.  This disease damages the teeth, gum and jawbone of more than 80% of Americans by age 45.

Periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and premature births.  Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease.  Oral bacteria may affect the heart by entering the bloodstream and attaching to fatty plaques on the blood vessel walls, contributing to clot formation.  Periodontal disease may also make it more difficult for diabetics to control their blood sugar, leading to further complications.  Pregnant women who have periodontal disease may be seven times more likely to have a baby that is born too early and too small.  Mouth diseases, such as periodontal disease are associated with increased risk for respiratory infection.  Periodontal disease may be a far more serious threat to your overall health than previously realized. For more information go to perio.org/consumer/faq.htm.