Periodontal diseases, also known as gum disease are some of the most common infections in the United States. In fact, more than 75% of American adults over age 35 have some form of periodontal diseases.
Despite the number of people infected with these diseases, most believe they don't have them. In a recent survey, eight out of ten Americans believed they did not have periodontal diseases, but seven out of ten exhibited one or more symptoms.
Periodontal diseases are painless until their advanced stages. If left untreated, periodontal diseases can result in bad breath; red swollen and bleeding gums; and eventually, tooth loss. In fact, periodontal diseases are the leading cause of adult tooth loss.
Despite all these facts, periodontal diseases are also some of the most preventative diseases.
Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases often begins at a young age. Systemic conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease, and diabetes are associated with this form of periodontitis.
Periodontal disease also called gingivitis , starts when tarter and bacteria trapped under the gum line lead to infection. As a result, the gums become inflamed. Eventually, pockets form between tooth and gum, making plaque harder to remove. Left untreated, the disease advances and bone damage occurs. Ultimately, this can lead to the extraction of one tooth, or more.
Aggressiveperiodontitis occurs in patients who are otherwise clinically healthy. Common features include rapid attachment loss and bone destruction and familial aggregation.
Chronicperiodontitis results in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment and bone loss. This is the most frequently occurring form of periodontitis and is characterized by pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva. It is prevalent in adults, but can occur at any age. Progression of attachment loss usually occurs slowly, but periods of rapid progression can occur.
Necrotizing periodontal disease is an infection characterized by necrosis of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. These lesions are most commonly observed in individuals with systemic conditions such as HIV infection, malnutrition and immunosuppression.
Click here to learn more about the Dental Exam Gum (periodontal) disease: (information provided by the ADA)
attacks the soft tissues and bone surrounding and supporting teeth.
can be contracted at any age
is most prevalent in adults
and it is the major cause of tooth loss for adults.
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Periodontal disease usually develops slowly. The following are 8 eight silent signs that may indicate you have periodontal disease:
Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.
Red, swollen, or tender gums.
Gums that have pulled away from your teeth.
Pus that appears between your teeth and gums when
Teeth that are becoming loose or changing in position.
Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
Any change in the way your partial dentures fit.
Bad Breath or Bad Taste.
If you notice any of these eight silent signs in your mouth, you may have periodontal (gum) disease, and you should see your dentist for an appointment. Call Today, your natural teeth are very important to you!
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Aggressive 
