What Is Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is any gum disease (such as periodontitis or gingivitis) that, if left untreated, can inflame and eventually destroy the bone and tissues that support and anchor the teeth, leading to teeth loosening, gum discomfort and receding gums.
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, which produces toxins that irritate the gums, causing swelling and bleeding. Bacterial plaque constantly forms on the teeth and, if not removed by daily brushing and flossing, will harden into calculus (tartar). Additional causes of gum disease are smoking, genetics, stress, diabetes, poor nutrition, medication(s), and grinding or clenching one's teeth.
A periodontist should be consulted if one's regular dentist detects an early sign of gum problems, including:
- Pockets - When the gum becomes infected and detaches from the tooth, the space it leaves is called a pocket;
- Bleeding - Although a common occurrence, gums should not bleed regularly (this is an early sign that pockets and bone loss will occur);
- Bone loss - If left untreated, bone loss due to periodontal decay can lead to teeth removal;
- Loose teeth; and
- Spaces forming between front teeth or spaces forming between some of the front teeth, which is a sign of advanced bone loss.
There are many treatments to aid gum disease, depending on its severity. This includes non-surgical treatments such as scaling and root planing, or periodontal surgery if it is determined that non-surgical treatment would be ineffective.
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