What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease or gum disease is defined as a usually painless, destructive process that effects structures around your teeth, namely the gums and bone. Unlike tooth decay, periodontal disease does have some genetic disposition. Some people are more likely to have gum disease than others. In addition to genetic factors, any type of tobacco use is an important risk factor. Tobacco users have a much higher rate of periodontal disease than non users. Perio disease is usually preceded by
Periodontal disease affects the periodontium (the supporting structures of the teeth). The cause of this disease is multifactorial, but the presence of bacteria in plaque certainly plays a major role. The supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. This can mean that part of the bone that supports the teeth or the ligaments that hold the teeth securely in place are destroyed. This disease process is generally not reversible and may require treatment from a dental professional specializing in periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can develop as a result of poor daily plaque control (e.g. brushing and flossing). However, not everyone with poor brushing and flossing techniques will develop this condition. It is wise to visit your dental hygienist or dentist regularly in order to detect early stages of the disease and to prevent further damage.
Periodontal (gum) disease is a serious chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones of the mouth. Gum disease generally starts when plaque forms around the teeth, inflaming the gums. The gums swell and bleed easily. Early stages of gingivitis are reversible with treatment by a dentist. However, untreated gum disease will eventually lead to periodontitis, an infection that moves below the gum line and attacks the tissue and bone supporting the teeth. As the infection progresses, tissue and bone are destroyed, and teeth become loose and must be removed.
Teeth are attached to the jaw bone by a ligament named the periodontal ligament. There are two types of bone cells in your bone. One cell type makes bone, and the other cell type recycles or “eats” bone. If one cell is making bone as fast as the other is eating bone, you are at equalibrium and are healthy. If you do not brush and especially floss your teeth, you will leave a biological film full of bacteria at the gumline of your teeth. The bateria feed and produce toxins that make your gums turn red and bleed easily due to an inflamation process. The inflamation signals your bone cells that make bone to stop producing. The bone cells that eat bone keep working and slowly erode the bone around your teeth. If this process goes un-checked you may lose teeth. There are many factors that affect your chances of having periodontal disease. Genetics, smoking, and home care habits all play a part. Regular recall cleanings and exams let us catch problems before they get away from us.
