| Periodontal disease or periodontitus is a disease of | | | | Symptoms of periodontal disease include redness, |
| the connective tissue supporting the teeth which | | | | swelling and bleeding of the gums, halitosis, pockets |
| causes progressive bone loss and eventual loss of | | | | between the teeth where bone shrinkage has |
| the teeth. The underlying cause of the disease is | | | | already occurred and loosening or loss of teeth in |
| undisturbed bacteria growth, usually between the | | | | later stages of the disease. |
| teeth or along the gum line. Severe forms of the | | | | By far the best way to treat periodontal disease is |
| disease will lead to loosening and loss of the teeth if | | | | to use preventative measures. These include |
| untreated. While severe forms of the disease are | | | | - twice daily brushing |
| uncommon, the milder forms occur in approximately | | | | - flossing |
| 50% of the population over age 30 | | | | - use of an antiseptic mouthwash |
| Periodontal disease is thought to occur more | | | | - regular check ups and cleaning by a dentist |
| frequently in people who have been diagnosed with | | | | Brushing the teeth properly at least twice daily and |
| gingivitis in the past. Gingivitis is inflammation of the | | | | using proper brushing techniques so that the bristles |
| gum tissue. Other risk factors for periodontal disease | | | | of the brush reach below the gum line. It's important |
| include smoking, inherited tendencies, and poorly | | | | to break up the developing deposit of bacteria that |
| managed diabetes. There is increased susceptibility to | | | | hide in these areas. An interdental brush may be |
| periodontal disease in people who have Downs | | | | useful if the spaces between the teeth are large |
| Syndrome. | | | | enough. Proper flossing techniques also assist in |
| The growth and buildup of microorganisms on the | | | | breaking up bacterial deposit. A mouthwash such as |
| teeth and gum line will result in formation of hard | | | | chlorhexidine gluconate or hydrogen peroxide will halt |
| deposits called bacterial plaque which become dental | | | | bacterial growth as well. Avoid the use of |
| calculus if left undisturbed. | | | | mouthwash which contains alcohol. |