The word "periodontal" literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal diseases are bacterial gum infections that destroy the gums and supporting bone which secure your teeth in your mouth. Periodontal diseases can affect one tooth or many teeth.
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. If the plaque is not removed, it can turn into a hard substance called calculus, or tartar, in less than two days. Tartar is so hard that it can only be removed by an oral health professional, such as a dentist or dental hygienist. The bacteria in plaque infect the gums, and release poisons that cause redness and inflammation (irritation). The inflammation and the the poisions themselves cause destruction of the tissues that support the teeth, including the bone. When this happens, the gums separated microscopically from the teeth, forming pockets that can fill with even more plaque, causing further infection.
What are the signs of periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning that symptoms may not materialize until significant bone loss has occured. Some people may have periodontitis and will not have experienced any symptoms. Therefore they may be unaware that they have disease. Common symptoms and signs of periodontal diseases include:
- Red, swollen, or tender gums
- Bleeding while brushing or flossing
- Gums pulling away from the teeth, making them appear longer
- Loose or separating teeth
- Pus between the gum and tooth
- Persistent bad breath
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
- A change in the fit of partial dentures
Are all forms or periodontal diseases the same?
There are many forms of periodontal diseases. The following is an overview of the two most common:
Gingivitis
As the mildest form of the periodontal disease, gingivitis causes the gum tissue to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually no discomfort at this stage.
Chronic Periodontitis
Chronic Periodontitis is a condition resulting in inflammation within the soft tissues surrounding the teeth causing progressive attachment and bone loss. It is diagnosed by bone loss on a dental X-ray, the formation of pockets, and/or receeding gums. It is most common in adults, but can occur at any age.
Periodontal disease is multi-factorial. This means that there is not just one cause of periodontal disease but rather multiple factors that can affect the health of your gums.
- Tobacco use significantly increases the risk of developing periodontal disease and can negatively affect treatment.
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can cause the gums to become red, tender, and bleed easily.
- Genetics and family history of periodontal disease indicate a greater likelihood of developing this disease.
- Stress can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, including periodontal disease.
- Some medications like oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and certain heart medicine, can affect oral health.
- Poor nutrition can make it harder for the body to fight off infection.
- Destructive habits such as improper oral hygiene techinque, oral piercing, and drug or alcohol abuse can affect periodontal health.