Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal is synonymous with “around the tooth”. Periodontal disease affects the gum tissues and the jawbone that support the teeth. Plaque is a biofilm of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. If plaque is not cleaned off, it turns into calculus AKA tartar. When plaque and tartar aren't removed, they begin to damage the gums and bone. Periodontal disease or periodontitis is characterized by swollen and bleeding gums.

4 out of 5 people who have periodontitis don’t know it! Most are not aware of it because the unset is usually painless in the initial stages.

Not only is periodontitis the primary reason for tooth loss, but recent research suggests that there could be a connection between gum disease and other systemic disorders such as diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular (heart) disease, bacterial pneumonia, and elevated risk during pregnancy. Researchers are working to determine if gum disease and bacteria causing periodontitis affect these systemic diseases and conditions. Tobacco use also increases the risk of periodontitis.

A balanced diet, adequate oral hygiene, and routine dental visits in Brooklyn, NY can help decrease your risk of having to deal with periodontal disease.

Symptoms of periodontal disease:

• Receding gums
  Loss of gingival tissue surrounding a tooth
  
• Bleeding gums
  Gums should not bleed, even when brushing vigorously or flossing
  
• Bad breath
  Produced by bacteria in the oral cavity
  
• New gap formation between teeth
  Caused by alveolar bone loss
  
• Mobile teeth
  Also caused by alveolar bone loss or weak periodontal ligaments (fibers that attach the tooth to the bone)
  
• Pus around the teeth and gums
  Sign of an infection
  
• Gum Tenderness and Discomfort
  Bacteria, plaque, and tartar irritate the gums
  
• Red and puffy gums
  Gingival tissue should never be swollen or red
  

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