About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal Disease

• About Periodontal Disease
• Preventing Gum Disease
• Oral Hygiene
• Oral Pathology

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 in 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.

Periodontal Care

Professional periodontal treatment is an investment in the health of your mouth. During a dental check up, your dentist inspects the color and firmness of the gums to determine if any periodontal problems exist. A very small instrument called a periodontal probe is used to gently measure the depth between your teeth and gums.

Healthy gum tissue fits snugly around each tooth holding it in place and keeping it anchored to the bone. In later stages of gum disease, the gums pull away from the teeth forming pockets where bacteria settle. Deeper pockets are more difficult for you and your periodontist to clean, so it’s important to reduce them.

Reducing pocket depth and eliminating existing bacteria are important to prevent damage caused by the progression of gum disease and to help you maintain a healthy smile.