Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a painless bacterial infection of the gums and bone around the teeth. This infection can destroy the bone around your teeth. Most adult tooth loss is due to periodontal infection. Periodontal disease has been known to create certain health risks. Good periodontal health is a key component of a healthy body.

This infection requires intervention from a dental professional. With periodontal therapy, we are able to remove debris and bacteria, allowing your gums to return to their natural health. Periodontal checkups are extremely important to prevent the loss of gum tissue and bone that support the teeth.

Almost half of American adults have some form of periodontal disease. However, the majority of these people do not even realize they have it. Periodontal disease is also called “gum disease”, “pyorrhea”, or “periodontitis”. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is usually painless until its advanced stages.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include:

• persistent bad breath
• gums that bleed when you brush
• red or swollen gums
• gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• loose or separating teeth
• pus between the gum and tooth
• a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. Gingivitis is usually painless and caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral hygiene. Periodontal diseases can be diagnosed by a dentist and/or a periodontist. Dr. Collins is a periodontist – a dentist with advanced training in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth.

Periodontal Disease and Your Health

Having a healthy mouth is important in maintaining a healthy body. Because periodontal disease is an infection, periodontal bacteria can enter the blood stream and travel to major organs and begin new infections. Research is suggesting that this may:

• Contribute to the development of heart disease,
• Increase the risk of stroke.
• Increase a woman's risk of having a preterm, low birth weight baby.
• Pose a serious threat to people whose health is compromised by diabetes, respiratory diseases, or osteoporosis.
• The heart is one of the most susceptible organs. Heart disease affects more than 60 million Americans and is the leading cause of adult deaths.

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Taking care of your periodontal health may be one important step toward prevention of heart disease. Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are almost twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease as those without periodontal disease. Because of these findings, Dr. Collins may refer to your local physician prior to treatment if you are being treated for or show signs of heart disease.