Periodontal Disease, or gum disease, is a serious progressive infection of the soft tissue. That means that the disease progresses from mild to severe. Left untreated, gum disease in its advanced stages can progress and destroy the jawbone that supports the teeth. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Periodontitis is largely preventable with proper hygiene. A balanced diet, brushing at least twice a day, flossing and regular dental exams can prevent or successfully treat periodontal disease in the early stage.
Periodontal Disease is a major risk to your overall health. Periodontal means “Around the tooth”, but the advanced disease can impact more than your teeth! If treated promptly in the early stages, it is reversible. However, once the bacterial infection progresses, it begins to destroy the gums and jawbone leading to tooth loss. The bacteria can travel to other parts of the body via the blood stream causing issues such as diabetes, heart and respiratory disease.
Our staff is trained to help you identify early signs of Periodontal Disease. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene at home are important to maintain not only your teeth, but your overall health as well!
The development of periodontitis usually begins with plaque. Plaque is the sticky film that forms on your teeth when starches and sugars mix with the bacteria found in your mouth. Daily brushing and flossing helps to remove plaque, but that isn’t enough. Plaque is a constant source of concern. Left untreated it will harden under the gum line into Tartar or calculus. Tartar is filled with bacteria and very difficult to remove. Tartar must be removed by a professional dental cleaning.
