What is a periodontal disease?
When gingivitis is not treated, it can advance to periodontal disease (periodontitis). Periodontal disease is inflammation of some or all of the tooth’s support structures (gingiva, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone). When compared to gingivitis, periodontitis indicates bone loss. Smoke and a poor brush can cause the beginning of this disease (other factors too). Plaque that is not removed can harden and form bacteria-harboring “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. If the periodontitis not treated, the bones, gums, and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
