The term “periodontal” means “around the tooth.”  Periodontal disease (also known as periodontitis and gum disease) is a common inflammatory condition that affects the supporting and surrounding soft tissues of the tooth, eventually affecting the jawbone itself in the disease’s most advanced stages.

Periodontal disease is most often preceded by gingivitis which is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue.  A bacterial infection affects the gums when the toxins contained in plaque begin to irritate and inflame the gum tissues.  Once this bacterial infection colonizes in the gum pockets between the teeth, it becomes much more difficult to remove and treat.  Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that eventually leads to the destruction of the connective tissue and jawbone. There may be little or no symptoms  in the beginning which is why regular check ups are so important. If left untreated, it can cause shifting teeth, loose teeth, and eventually tooth loss. 

Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among adults in the developed world and should always be promptly treated.

Treatment for Periodontal Disease

There are many surgical and nonsurgical treatments for periodontal disease based on your symptoms.  Serious cases may be referred to a specialist called a periodontist.  In this office our hygienist can perform a procedure called scaling and root planing.  Your infection is treated,  with a followup visit  scheduled six weeks later.