Periodontal disease means inflammation around the tooth.  More commonly known as gum disease, it is an inflammatory disease of the periodontium or the tissues in your tooth and the principal cause of tooth loss.  Gum disease has been associated with life threatening health diseases such as heart attack, stroke and diabetes.  Periodontal disease is categorized by how severe it is with gingivitis being the milder of the two and periodontal disease being more serious.

First, let’s look at what causes periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease is caused by the break down of the gum tissue from bacterial infection.  When the infection progresses, the bone recedes and sometimes the gum does as well.  If the root of the tooth is exposed, the tooth will become sensitive.  In addition, periodontal disease sometimes creates a pocket beneath the gum line and between the gum and tooth.  Depending on its severity, it can lead to gum disease.  If you show signs such as bleeding, sensitive or swollen gums or bad breath, you should consult with your dentist to find out if you have periodontal disease.  It is also important to note that some people do not have show symptoms of periodontal disease so regular dental check-ups are best.


What are some causes of the disease? 
Besides poor oral hygiene and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease, you may be surprised to know that periodontal disease can also be caused by smoking, being pregnant, using oral contraceptives or by grinding your teeth.

What is Gingivitis?
Gingivitis is also a periodontal disease.  Specifically, it is a chronic condition that affects the gum tissue and is the early stage of gum disease.  If caught and treated early, gingivitis is reversible and you can prevent its progression to periodontitis, the more severe and destructive oral disease.  Periodontitis needs to be treated with surgery to reverse the damages and you could lose your teeth and bone.

If you are experiencing red, swollen or puffy gums that bleed when you brush, it’s best to see your dentist.  The good thing about being diagnost with gingivitis is that you can easily reverse the disease and be easily treated by a trip to your dentist office for a cleaning and by using proper dental care at home.  Gingivitis treatment entails scaling or removing hard plaque and tartar from your teeth.

If caught early, you can prevent periodontitis, tooth and bone loss and treatment is manageable.