Periodontal Disease - What is it?

Periodontal disease (gum disease) is the most common form of dental disease. It affects a very large percentage of the human population and is still the leading cause of tooth loss. Periodontal diseases are bacterial infections which attack the attachment apparatus and supporting structures of our teeth. These diseases are caused by complex groups of bacteria (constellations) which are resistant to antibody therapy, but dental and periodontal procedures in combination with antibiotics can be very effective.

Gingivitis This is the most common form of periodontal disease, actually is gum disease. The term gingivitis means inflammation of the gingivae (gums). It is prevalent throughout the population especially among adolescents and young adults. Gingivitis is a bacterial infection which results from poor and/or infrequent home hygiene. This condition is curable with professional treatment and good oral hygiene.

Periodontitis This more advanced periodontal disease which, although called gum disease by most people, is more accurately bone disease. Gingivitis may lead to this condition if untreated, as bacterial infection in the gum spreads deeper along the root surface of the tooth and begins to destroy the supporting bone socket. Periodontitis is silent and insidious and may go undiagnosed because it can be painless until it reaches a late stage. This is a dangerous condition not only because if untreated it will cause tooth loss, but recent research has proven relationships to systemic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease and diabetes.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Early symptoms of gingivitis include bleeding when brushing, swollen or tender gums and/or bad breath. The gums look red and may be enlarged.

More advanced periodontal disease may see loosening of teeth and teeth may become sore or painful when biting. Front teeth may begin to separate and spaces form where previously teeth were tight together. Gum recession may be visible. Bad breath or unpleasant taste can be experienced. Late stage periodontal disease is insidious because it often does not hurt. Pain comes infrequently with gum abscesses, but for the most part it progresses quietly until severe bone loss and destruction of supporting tissue occurs.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

Poor or Improper Dental Hygiene This is the most common cause of gum disease. Failure to remove bacteria (dental plaque) carefully on a daily basis results in gum inflammation. If inflammation (gingivitis) is not treated it may lead to further breakdown (periodontitis).

Genetic Predisposition Some people have unexplainable resistance to periodontal disease, while others are much more susceptible. Familial and inherited resistance factors are described in the periodontal literature, but these factors, while subject of intense research, are still incompletely understood. The percentage of gene related gum diseases is unknown.

Smoking/Tobacco Use This is one of the greatest risk factors contributing to periodontal disease. The mechanisms of smoking affect on periodontal tissue and bacterial growth are well understood. Smoking also reduces wound healing capabilities and usually compromises treatment results. The effects of smoking are reversible with cessation. The benefits of kicking the habit are far reaching.

Medications Medications required to treat high blood pressure and heart disease may have side effects which contribute to gum disease. Diuretics, antidepressants and antiarythmics contribute to dry mouth by reducing saliva flow. Saliva caries natural defense proteins and is important to resistance to dental diseases (dental decay and gum disease). Calcium channel blockers and beta blockers are cardiac medications which improve heart function by regulating rhythm and increasing cardiac output. One common side effect of these medications is gingival hyperplasia. This is gum enlargement which can make hygiene difficult and often leads to inflammation.

Diabetes If you are diabetic, you are at higher risk for developing infections, including periodontal diseases. These infections can impair the ability to process and/or utilize insulin, which may cause your diabetes to be more difficult to control and your infection.