What is periodontal disease? It is an inflammation affecting the gums and supporting structures of your teeth. It is caused by naturally occurring bacteria in your mouth. As the bacteria settle on the space between your tooth and gum the bodies own defenses will attack the bacteria. At the same time though the attachment between the tooth and gum and the tooth and bone will be compromised.

What are the signs of gum disease?

• Bleeding gums during tooth brushing or flossing.
• Red swollen and tender gums.
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose or separating teeth
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
• A change in the fit of partial dentures
• Gum abscesses or boils

What causes gum disease? The main cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky film that forms on your teeth.

What other factors might contribute to gum disease? There are many factors other than plaque that contribute to periodontal disease these include:

• Smoking, which decreases both blood flow to the gingiva and the bodies defenses
• Stress; stress also affects the body's defenses. With increase in stress comes worsening and progressing periodontal disease
• Health issues also contribute to periodontal disease. One health issue that we see in practice that contributes to periodontal disease is diabetes. Blood vessel fragility in uncontrolled diabetic patients contribute to greater breakdown and delayed healing.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the blood supply to certain parts of the body, and increases the quantity of disease causing bacteria. As a result 30-60% of pregnant women experience red, tender or bleeding gums.

How do I prevent gum disease? To keep your teeth for a lifetime, you must remove plaque from your teeth by brushing and flossing everyday. Regular dental visits are equally important. A professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist will remove hardened deposits in places that are missed.