Periodontal disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. In fact, after age 13, about two out of three Americans are affected by some form of gum disease.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums. In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.

There is recent research to substantiate other factors that can cause tooth loss.   It has been shown that there are NON-PLAQUE bacteria that can cause even more extensive and more rapid periodontal breakdown than PLAQUE bacteria. Some of these bacteria are known as G- Anaerobes.  To find out if you have them requires a bacterial culture or a DNA probe (analysis).  If the results show that you have one or more of these type of bacteria, adjunctive antibiotic therapy must be administered ALONG WITH conventional periodontal therapy (surgical or non-surgical).

There are other CO-FACTORS that can affect the severity of your periodontal disease:

• Systemic Problems (diseases in other parts of your body)
• Parafunctional Habits (grinding or clenching of your teeth)
• Medications

Because gum disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it. In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged. The teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.

Signs of gum disease

If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease, see your dentist immediately:

• gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
• red, swollen or tender gums
• gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• bad breath that doesn't go away
• pus between your teeth and gums
• loose teeth
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• a change in the fit of partial dentures

	Normal, healthy gums Healthy gums and bone anchor teeth firmly in place.
	Periodontitis Unremoved, plaque hardens into calculus (tartar). As plaque and calculus continue to build up, the gums begin to recede (pull away) from the teeth, and pockets form between the teeth and gums.
	Advanced periodontitis The gums recede farther, destroying more bone and the periodontal ligament. Teeth — even healthy teeth — may become loose and need to be extracted.

Preventing gum disease

The good news is that you can help prevent gum disease by taking good care of your teeth every day and having regular dental checkups. Here's how to keep your teeth and gums healthy: