What Is Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Periodontal disease is the disease of the gum and its surrounding area. It is caused when there is plaque and tartar forming around the teeth that gradually causes inflammation in the gums. If left unchecked, this bacterial infection begins to cause damage around the bone of the tooth, triggering bone loss around the tooth. That becomes periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease, where only the gums are affected. Without medical intervention at this stage, the disease progresses to its more severe phase, eventually leading to tooth loss. New research in this area is pointing towards more serious health effects of periodontal disease that may go well beyond oral health.

Periodontal disease can be prevented if one maintains good oral hygiene practices, and makes regular visits to the dentist every six months for check ups. Essentially, the disease is caused when the plaque and tartar remain on the teeth for a long time. These contain bacteria that can cause inflammation of the gums, which is Gingivitis. This is a milder form of the disease that can be stopped with professional cleaning of the teeth and gums by a dentist regularly.

Periodontitis is the advanced form of the disease that may happen if gingivitis is left untreated for too long. The gums begin to loosen up, giving way to infection inside the teeth. This infection can eventually go up to the bone and tissue that support the teeth, and erode their strength. As a result, the teeth may not be able to hold on strongly in their position, and may eventually have to be taken out.

Regular brushing and flossing of the teeth at least twice a day is the primary care that a person must take to prevent the onset of gum disease. Periodic visits to the dentist can ensure that the disease gets caught early, and preventive measures can be taken promptly.

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