What is periodontal Disease?

The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Healthy gum tissue fits like a cuff around each tooth. Where the gum line meets the tooth, it forms a slight v-shaped crevice called a sulcus (some people calle it "Pockets"). In healthy teeth, this space is usually three millimeters or less.

Periodontal diseases are infections that affect the tissue and bone that support teeth. As the tissue are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket that is greater than three millimeters. Generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the pocket depth and bone loss. The enlarged pockets allow harmful bacteria to grow and make it difficult to practice effective oral hygiene. Left untreated, periodontal diseases may eventually lead to tooth loss.

Progression of periodontal disease

                Helth                       Gingivitis                        Periodontitis

What causes periodontal disease?

The mouth is filled with countless bacteria. Periodontal disease begins when certain bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on the teeth and the surfaces lining the mouth) produce toxins and enzymes that irritate the gums and cause inflammation. The resulting inflammation, which may be painless, can damage the attachment of the gums and bone to the tooth.

Good Oral Hygiene - Brushing twice a day and flossing or using another interdental cleaner once a day - helps reduce the plaque film.

Plaque that is not removed regularly can harden into rough porous deposits called calculus, or tartar.  Tartar is not the main cause of periodontal disease, but the pores in tartar hold bacteria and toxins, which are impossible to remove even with regular brushing. Once the hardened tartar forms, it can only be removed when teeth are cleaned professionally at the dental office

What makes Periodontal disease worse?