How do you describe it?

Periodontal disease is another name for gum disease. It is an illness of the tissue that holds your teeth in place and surrounds them. Periodontal disease goes through two separate stages: In the first stage, gingivitis, the gum tissue swells and turns red. The second is called periodontitis, and it can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, bones to break down, and teeth to become loose and possibly fall out.

Why does it happen?

Bacteria are the most straightforward way to explain what causes gum disease. Plaque is a film that forms on teeth when germs in the mouth are not stopped. Over time, plaque turns into tartar (calculus). This tartar gets bigger, and it can even get below the gum line. This infection makes the teeth, gums, and bones swell and hurt.

What Are the Risks of It?

There are a few things or behaviors that can make a person more likely to get and worsen periodontal disease, even though bacteria is the main cause of it. Tobacco use, bad mouth hygiene, diabetes, diseases that weaken the immune system, medications that lower saliva production, changes in hormones in girls and women, stress, crooked teeth, and a genetic predisposition are some of the main things that put people at risk.

How can you tell if it’s dangerous?

These are some of the most common and easy-to-see signs of gum disease:

• Sore or red gums;
• Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth that won’t go away
• Sensitive teeth 
• Pain when chewing
• Changes in your bite 
• Gum tissue pulling away from teeth
• Loose teeth

How do you treat it?

Once the dentist or hygienist tells the patient they have periodontal disease, the most important thing for them to remember is that any treatment will only work if they continue to take care of their teeth at home. In any case, you can treat gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, with regular cleanings from your hygienist and daily flossing and brushing. If periodontal disease is more advanced, it may need more invasive treatments, such as deep cleaning of the roots below the gum line, antibiotics or other medicines that are swallowed or put under the gums, or even oral surgery.

More information about periodontal disease

CDC data shows that 47% of people over 30 have some type of periodontal disease, and 70% of adults over 65 have the disease. Men are more likely than women to have periodontal disease (56% vs. 38%).

• Periodontal disease affects 64% of people who smoke today