What is Periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. It is characterized by halitosis and inflamed bleeding gums. 

Periodontal disease is an insidious process that is preventable with proper oral hygiene.

The disease begins when plaque is not properly removed from your teeth. As plaque hardens it becomes tartar, which are hard calcified deposits that form on your teeth. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria that attacks the soft tissue around your gums. The result of this accumulation is red, irritated and bleeding gum tissue. This is the early stage of gum disease known as Gingivitis. When Gingivitis is left untreated, it advances and progresses into Periodontitis.

Periodontitis ultimately destroys the tissue surrounding your teeth and the bone that holds your teeth in place which results in tooth loss.  

The disease advances silently, often without pain, that is why proper oral hygiene from the start is essential in preventing future gum disease. 

Not only can Periodontitis lead to tooth loss, it is also a risk factor for heart disease, lung, disease, stroke, diabetes, pregnancy complications and more. Gum disease weakens your immune system, which is why oral health is an essential part of your overall health.