Oral Health

Periodontal Diseases

What are periodontal diseases?

The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal diseases, also called gum diseases, are serious bacterial infections that destroy the gums and the surrounding tissues of the mouth. If the inflammation is left untreated, the disease will continue and the underlying bones around the teeth will dissolve, and will no longer be able to hold the teeth in place. Chronic inflammation, resulting from a periodontal disease, is responsible for 70 percent of all adult tooth losses, and affects 75 percent of people at some point in their lives.

What causes periodontal disease?

As with many other oral health diseases, bacteria and plaque build-up is often the culprit. In fact, plaque build-up is the leading cause of gum disease. Other potential causes of gum disease include:

genetics
lifestyle choices
a diet low in nutrients
smoking / the use of smokeless tobacco
autoimmune or systemic diseases
diabetes
hormonal changes in the body
bruxism (incessant clenching of the teeth)
certain medications

What are the symptoms of periodontal disease?

The following are the most common symptoms of gum disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

red, swollen, tender gums
bleeding while brushing and/or flossing
receding gums
loose or separating teeth
persistent odorous breath
dentures no longer fit
pus between the teeth and gums
a change in bite and jaw alignment

The symptoms of gum disease may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a dentist or other oral health specialist for a diagnosis.

What are the different types of periodontal disease?

The different types of periodontal disease are often classified by the stage the disease has advanced to at the time of evaluation, including:

gingivitis
With gingivitis, the mildest form of periodontal disease, the gums are likely to become red, swollen, and tender, causing them to bleed easily during daily cleanings and flossing. Treatment by a dentist and proper, consistent care at home help to resolve the problems associated with gingivitis.

mild periodontitis
Untreated gingivitis leads to mild periodontitis. This stage of gum disease shows evidence of the bone around the tooth starting to erode. Prompt medical attention is necessary to prevent further erosion and damage.

moderate to advanced periodontitis
This most advance stage of gum disease shows significant bone and tissue loss surrounding the teeth.

Treatment for periodontal disease:

Specific treatment for periodontal disease will be determined by your dentist based on:

your age, overall health, and medical history
extent of the disease
your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference

Treatment may include any, or a combination of, the following:

scaling and root planing - involves removing the plaque from and around the tooth and smoothing the root surface
medication
surgery, such as:
pocket reduction
- a regeneration procedure
- a soft tissue graft
- crown lengthening
dental implants

This page was last updated on: January 17, 2008.

For patient inquiries, call 1-800-492-5538 or click here to make an appointment.