Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? Are they red and puffy and sore? Do you constantly suffer from bad breath? Have you noticed that your gums have begun to recede? Have any of your teeth become loose? If you have experienced any or all of these symptoms, you are either in the early stages of gum disease, or you have full-blown periodontal disease.

Even if the only symptom you have is slight bleeding of the gums, there is cause for concern. Healthy gums should NOT bleed…not even when you brush or floss! Any indication of periodontal disease should be reported to your dentist immediately so that appropriate treatment may be administered.

Gum disease is the number one cause of tooth loss among adults. That, in itself, is enough to cause concern and worry. However, more concern may arise from the fact that gum disease has also been linked to much more serious health problems. Included among these health problems are heart disease, stroke, certain types of cancer, and diabetes.

"Periodontal" refers to the support structure of the teeth, which includes alveolar bone, root cement, periodontal ligament, and the gums. Periodontitis (periodontal disease) is a disease that affects one or more of these periodontal tissues.

Gum disease is primarily caused by many strains of bacteria. Other co-factors may play an important role in the development of periodontal disease, although they are not enough to cause the disease.

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gum disease. These factors include but are not necessarily limited to:

• Poor oral health habits
• Heredity
• Decreased immunity, such as that associated with leukemia or HIV/AIDS
• Tobacco use
• Substance abuse
• Advanced age
• Poor nutrition
• Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy or menopause
• Ill-fitting dental restorations
• Diabetes
• Certain medications

Preventive measures, including good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, can help to lower your risk of gum disease.