Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The following signs may indicate you have the disease:
Periodontal disease is the number one chronic infectious disease in the world. Surveys and studies show that over 50% of the American adult population has gingivitis and that 36% have periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age.
It is the leading cause of tooth loss and begins as a painless infection in the gums that is caused by buildup of bacteria. The bacteria buildup becomes dental plaque. If left untreated, pockets of plaque form around the gum tissue and plaque continues to accumulate below the gum line.
Inflammation results, destroying the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. This bacteria can travel into the bloodstream and other parts of the body, putting a person’s health at risk.
Treatment for periodontal disease differs depending on the severity of the case. Nonsurgical therapy for periodontal disease cannot be treated in a one visit trip to the dentist. With a number of trained Periodontal Therapists on staff, we can treat periodontal disease with the latest technology, including laser therapy.
