Periodontal Disease
Periodontics Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of periodontics, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to periodontics are discussed.
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Periodontal diseases are ongoing infections of the gums that gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease in genetically-susceptible individuals. Bacteria found in plaque produce toxins or poisons that irritate the gums. They may cause them to turn red, swell, and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorates. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.
With periodontal disease, symptoms such as bleeding, redness, and swelling do not have to be present. Further, pain is usually not associated with periodontal disease until very advanced stages. This disease damages the teeth, gum, and jawbone of more than 80% of Americans by the age of 45. Recent research has also identified periodontal disease as a risk factor in a number of systemic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, pulmonary conditions, and pregnancy complications.
What Causes It
Periodontics Overview
For a brief narrated overview of periodontics, please click the image below. It will launch our flash educational MiniModule in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about periodontics.
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Periodontal disease, as well as dental decay, are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film composed primarily of various types of bacteria which adhere to your teeth at and below the gum line. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. It begins to form within minutes after cleaning. If not carefully removed by daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (or tartar). This cannot be removed without professional cleaning.
The bacterial plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums which may (but not always) cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth causing periodontal pockets to form along the teeth. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorates. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss.