What is periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease or gum disease is defined as a usually painless, destructive process that effects structures around your teeth, namely the gums and bone. Unlike tooth decay, periodontal disease does have some genetic disposition. Some people are more likely to have gum disease than others. In addition to genetic factors, any type of tobacco use is an important risk factor. Tobacco users have a much higher rate of periodontal disease than non users. Perio disease is usually preceded by
Periodontal disease is an infection in man and other animals, which will occur in most animals. It affects the gums and bony supporting tissues that hold the teeth in their sockets. The battle of bad breath takes place as soon as a patients dental cleaning is completed because a sticky transparent layer begins to form on the surface of the teeth. Over a period of time, infection will build and the supporting jawbone will recede from the area of inflammation. Eventually the teeth will be lost if home or professional dental care is not performed. Smaller dogs and cats lose their teeth more quickly because they have less bone to lose.
Periodontal disease affects the periodontium (the supporting structures of the teeth). The cause of this disease is multifactorial, but the presence of bacteria in plaque certainly plays a major role. The supporting periodontal structures begin to breakdown. This can mean that part of the bone that supports the teeth or the ligaments that hold the teeth securely in place are destroyed. This disease process is generally not reversible and may require treatment from a dental professional specializing in periodontal disease. Periodontal disease can develop as a result of poor daily plaque control (e.g. brushing and flossing). However, not everyone with poor brushing and flossing techniques will develop this condition. It is wise to visit your dental hygienist or dentist regularly in order to detect early stages of the disease and to prevent further damage. What is a Cavity? A cavity is the destruction of the tooth enamel, dentin, and / or cementum and may involve the tooth pulp. How does
Periodontal disease (or commonly known as gum disease) is an inflammatory disease of the support structures of teeth. These structures include gingiva (gum), periodontal ligament and alveolar bone (part of the jaw bone). The gingiva, being the most superficial tissue, provides most of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease, such as swelling, redness, bleeding, recession etc. When inflammation is confined ONLY to the superficial layer (the gingiva), the condition is known as Gingivitis. This is a very common condition affecting adults and children alike. When inflammation is spread to and involves deeper structures (such as bone) the condition is known as Periodontitis (or Periodontal Disease). It is usually characterized by the irreversible loss of jawbone. This bone loss feature can be seen on radiographs (x-rays). About 30% of the adult population can have limited Periodontitis during their lifetime. Generalized and severe Periodontitis only affects 10-15% of the adult populat
The word periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal Disease is a bacterial infection which can destroy the gums and bone that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. Periodontitis develops when plaque, a sticky bacteria film, builds up around teeth. The plaque can spread below the gumline and cause separation of the gum and root. These spaces are known as “pockets.” The bacteria in the pockets may cause your body to produce harmful enzymes that can cause further deterioration of the supporting structures of your teeth. Periodontal disease is often undiagnosed and is a major cause of tooth loss in adults.
