Periodontal disease affects three out of four adults. It is caused by bacterial plaque build-up that infects the periodontal (gum) tissues. This infection destroys the tissue and bone that supports the teeth. The #1 cause of adult tooth loss in America is periodontal disease.

Signs and Symptoms

• Gums have healthy pink color
• Gum line hugs teeth tightly
• No bleeding

• Gums bleed easily when you brush or when probed gently during examination
• Gums are inflamed and sensitive to touch
• Possible bad breath and bad taste
• Gums between teeth may look bluish-red in color

• Gums may begin to pull away from the teeth
• Bleeding, puffiness and inflammation more pronounced
• Bad breath and bad taste
• Slight loss of bone, horizontally on X-ray
• Pockets of 3-4mm between teeth and gums in one or more areas of the mouth

• Gum boils or abscesses may develop
• Teeth look longer as gums begin to recede
• Front teeth may begin to drift, showing spaces
• Bad breath, bad taste
• Both horizontal and angular bone loss on X-ray
• Pockets between teeth and gum range from 4-6mm deep

• Teeth may become mobile or loose
• Bad breath, bad taste are constant
• Roots may be exposed and are sensitive to hot and cold
• Severe horizontal and angular bone loss on X-ray
• Pockets between teeth and gum now in excess of 6mm deep

We have treated many people suffering from gingivitis to advanced periodontitis to achieve improved health.

See also: Heart Disease and its link to Periodontal Disease.