IDENTIFYING GUM DISEASE
 

Periodontal disease (gum disease), is a bacterial infection of the tissue surrounding the teeth; causing localized and systemic inflammation. It may be accompanied locally by loss of supporting tissue and bone.  The cause of periodontal disease is a bacterial film known as plaque.  As plaque accumulates, the normal bacteria located around teeth begin to change into more virulent and pathogenic bacteria.  It is these species of pathogenic bacteria that are responsible for the ensuing infection and destruction of surrounding bone.

Periodontal disease is usually diagnosed by measuring bone loss visible on x-rays and “pocket depth” with a periodontal probe around teeth, which is indicative of the amount of surrounding bone and attachment loss. It is these findings along with visible inflammation and bleeding upon probing that lead to a periodontal disease diagnosis.
 
 
Periodontal disease may occur as gingivitis (inflammation of the soft tissues only) or periodontitis (infection of the soft tissue and supporting bone). As periodontitis progresses, it destroys the support of the teeth and initiates a local and systemic inflammatory response.  It is this secondary inflammatory response and circulating bacteria that is suspect in the:
 

  • pathogenesis of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease

  • complications with glycemic control and associated pathologies

  • orthopedic implant failure due to oral bacteria induced infection

  • complications with pulmonary disease

  • contribution to pre-term, low weight babies
Periodontitis can exist as mild, moderate or severe.  As the severity of periodontitis increases, so does its suspected contribution to the conditions mentioned above.
 
Periodontal disease can progress into advanced forms resulting in loose teeth and eventually loss of teeth.
 

Quick Facts
Signs and Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

  1. Bleeding gums

  2. Sore or swollen gums

  3. Loose teeth

  4. Gum recession

  5. Chronic bad breadth

  6. Pus around teeth

  7. Pain upon chewing

  8. Recent bite change

  9. Spaces between teeth

  10. Food accumulation in gums

If you have one or more of these symptoms, you may have periodontal disease.
 
Now that we know what periodontal disease is and that it may have a strong association with cardiovascular disease, pre-term/low weight babies, diabetes, orthopedic implant failure, and pulmonary disease, here is what we can do about it....