Periodontal disease is a condition that affects the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is caused by plaque, which is a film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva that sticks to the teeth.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar), a dense, irritating calcium deposit.  Eventually, plaque and calculus begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums and, in its later stages, loose teeth.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Smoking  increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits are the best ways of reducing your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Bleeding gums – Healthy gums do not bleed, even when you brush or use dental floss.

• Loose teeth – Caused by the bone receding away from the teeth.

• New spacing between teeth – As the bone support is lost, the teeth begin to move.

• Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria trapped in the gum pockets around the teeth.
• Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.

• Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.

• Red and puffy gums – Healthy gums are not red or swollen.

• Tenderness or discomfort – Healthy gums are not tender or uncomfortable to touching or brushing.