Page 9 - Boyne Dental E-Mag

Periodontal disease also known as gum disease is a set of inflammatory disease affecting the tissues
surrounding the teeth. It is a bacterial infection caused by accumulation of dental plaque on the

teeth. It is a disease that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. The word perio-
dontal literally means 'around the tooth'. As plaque continuous to build without proper cleaning,
gums become infected and the bone tends to recede. Teeth may become sensitive as the root be-
comes exposed, and pus may be produced and pockets may form between the gum and tooth.
These processes are not visible to the naked eye, and if left undetected and untreated it can lead to
loss of teeth.

In the early stages, periodontitis has very few symptoms, and in many individuals the disease has
progressed significantly before they seek treatment.

Symptoms may include:
 Redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth, using dental floss or biting into hard food
 Gum swelling that recurs
 Spitting out blood after brushing teeth.
 Bad breath, and a persistent metallic taste in the mouth
 Gingival recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth.
 Deep pockets between the teeth and the gums
 Loose teeth, in the later stages