Periodontal Disease

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can further irritate the gums and lead to inflammation and infection.

What are the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?

The early stages of periodontal disease, called gingivitis, are characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of the disease that can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, bone loss, and tooth loss.

Some of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• Bleeding gums
• Loose teeth
• New spacing between teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Pus around the teeth and gums
• Receding gums
• Red and puffy gums
• Tenderness or discomfort

How is periodontal disease treated?

Periodontal disease can be treated by a dentist or periodontist. The goal of treatment is to remove plaque and tartar, stop the progression of the disease, and prevent further damage to the teeth and gums.

Treatment options for periodontal disease may include:

• Professional cleaning
• Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing)
• Antibiotics
• Surgery

How can I prevent periodontal disease?

The best way to prevent periodontal disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing once a day, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Other things you can do to help prevent periodontal disease include:

• Quitting smoking
• Eating a healthy diet
• Managing stress

What are the risks of periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It can also lead to other health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

If you have any of the signs or symptoms of periodontal disease, it is important to see your dentist right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the disease from progressing and causing serious damage to your teeth and gums.

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