Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis (gum disease) is an infection and results in the destruction of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, to build up on the teeth and harden, though genetics may also play a significant role in the disease process. In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to sore, bleeding gums, painful chewing problems, and eventually tooth loss.

Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless plaque on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of this plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form calculus (tartar) that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.

There are a number of contributing factors for gum disease, but smoking is the most significant. Smoking also can make treatment for gum disease less successful. Other contributing factors include uncontrolled diabetes, hormonal changes in females, medications that reduce the flow of saliva and certain illnesses.

• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Tender or bleeding gums
• Painful chewing
• Loose teeth
• Sensitive teeth
• Receding gums or longer appearing teeth

At a dental visit, a dentist or dental hygienist will:

• Examine your gums and note any signs of inflammation.
• Use a tiny ruler called a probe to check for and measure any pockets around the teeth. In a healthy mouth, the depth of these pockets is usually between 1 and 3 millimeters.
• Take an x-ray to see whether there is any bone loss.

You can keep your gums and teeth healthy by:

• Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Flossing regularly to remove plaque from between teeth. Or, you can use a device such as a special brush, wooden or plastic pick recommended by a dental professional.
• Visiting the dentist routinely for a check-up and professional cleaning.
• Quitting smoking.
• Controlling systemic conditions, especially diabetes.