Periodontal Diseases
You can have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime with proper care. This means thor ough daily brushing, cleaning between teeth and regular checkups to avoid tooth decay and periodontal diseases.

Most people know that tooth decay can result in tooth loss if not treated. But for adults, it is periodontal (gum) diseases that are a major cause of tooth loss.

"Periodontal" comes from two Greek words that mean "around the tooth." Healthy gum tissue and bone form the supporting founda tion of each tooth.

Periodontal diseases are caused by bacterial infections that attack gums, ligaments and bone. Although the body has some natural defenses that resist bacterial attacks, these may not fully protect gum and bone tissues from inflammation and infection.

There are several kinds of periodontal dis ease. Often painless, these diseases may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly, and they can occur at any age. Unless you have regular dental checkups, including a periodon tal exam, you may not be aware you have a problem until your gums and bone have been seriously compromised.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

The mouth contains a large number and vari ety of bacteria that form a sticky film called plaque.

In this film, the bacteria that cause periodontal diseases create toxins (poison), which irritate the gums and bone. Even if you brush and clean between your teeth every day, you may not completely remove plaque, especially around the gumline.

Plaque that is not removed can harden into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. Tartar can only be removed when your teeth are cleaned in the dental office.

Although tartar that forms above the gumline has not been shown to cause periodontal dis ease, tartar on teeth below (under) the gum- line makes it more difficult to remove plaque. This can create conditions that lead to chronic inflammation and infection.

The Warning Signs
If you notice any of the following signs, see your dentist immediately:

• Gums that bleed easily.
• Red, swollen or tender gums.
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
• Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed.
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste.
• Permanent teeth that are loose or separating.
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
• Any changes in the fit of partial dentures.

It's possible to have periodontal disease and not have warning signs. That's why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are important.