Periodontal is a word meaning “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a condition in which the tissues (gums, deeper supporting tissue, and bone) around a tooth or teeth become infected and inflamed. Periodontal disease includes both gingivitis and periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease

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Periodontal disease is caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria that live naturally in the mouth. These bacteria are responsible for the sticky white substance that develops on teeth called plaque. When plaque stays on a tooth long enough, it hardens into a solid material called calculus or tartar. This material is much more difficult to remove from teeth than plaque. Over time, the presence of calculus causes gum inflammation or gingivitis. Gingivitis is a more mild form of periodontal disease, affecting the gums. It is almost always reversible with appropriate treatment.

If gingivitis is not halted through careful treatment, then the inflammation may spread below the gum line, affecting the deeper tissues and bone that surround and support the teeth. This condition is known as periodontitis. Untreated periodontitis can destroy the bone and other supporting tissues resulting in eventual tooth loss.

Many cases of periodontitis begin with gingivitis. However, it is possible for the deeper infection of periodontitis to begin without the more superficial gingivitis having been noticed.

Periodontal disease is a serious condition that needs to be thoroughly and carefully treated by your dentist. A variety of studies suggest the possibility of an association between periodontal disease and:

  • An increased risk of heart disease
  • An increased risk of stroke
  • Problems controlling diabetes
  • Increased lung infections and bronchitis , especially in susceptible people
  • Premature or early delivery of pregnant women with periodontal disease
  • Low-birth weight babies of women with periodontal disease

Some estimates suggest that 90% of adults have gingivitis at some point in their lives, and at least 35% of adults age 30 and older have periodontitis.

The chance of developing periodontitis increases with age. Approximately 29% of people aged 30-53 have periodontitis, and 50% aged 55-90 have the condition. Unfortunately, studies also suggest that only 25% with periodontitis are aware of that they have the condition, and only 19% are actually receiving treatment.