About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal treatment is necessary when various conditions affect the health of your gums, jawbone and ligaments 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 and bone, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically susceptible individuals. 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.

Periodontics Overview

For a brief narrated overview of periodontics, please click the image on the below. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about periodontics.