Periodontal Diseases

Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually destroy the support of your natural teeth. There are numerous diseases entities requiring different treatment approaches. Dental plaque (a sticky, colorless bacterial film that constantly forms on your teeth) is the primary cause of gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing will prevent many periodontal conditions. However, highly susceptible individuals or people with established disease require professional intervention. Bacteria found in plaque produces toxins or poisons that irritate the gums, which may cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form.

As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. Pockets develop around periodontally infected teeth that harbor bacteria that are responsible for disease progression. A healthy tooth has a pocket (sulcus) of 3 mm in depth. Pockets greater that 5 mm in depth are more difficult to maintain with daily tooth brushing. As a result, bacteria continue to accumulate and form tartar (a calcified layer of dental plaque). As pockets deepen and bacteria accumulate, periodontal disease becomes established. Unless professional treatment is performed, the likelihood of periodontal destruction is high.