Periodontal gum disease and what it’s about eventually comes to the forefront of a person’s thought processes whenever he or she has been told by a dentist that some form of the disease is present in the mouth. Understanding not only what it is but how it can be prevented and treated can go a long way towards soothing anxiety that might arise when the disease has been diagnosed.

This form of gum disease (periodontal) can range in severity from mile to serious. In its mild form, the disease usually can be identified due to the presence of inflamed gums. In its serious forms, though, if it isn’t treated properly the loss of tissue and bone that surround and support the teeth can begin to evidence itself. In its worst form, the teeth often are permanently lost.

In the majority of cases, the most common cause of this gum disease is fairly easy to identify. Plaque in the mouth that’s allowed to build up in the mouth eventually hardens to form tartar. This substance can’t be removed by just brushing and flossing. Rather, it requires deep cleaning by a dentist. Tartar also harbors even greater levels of bacteria that continue to build in the mouth.

The longer the time that tartar and plaque is allowed to remain in the mouth, the greater the chance that inflammation of the gums (called “gingivitis”) will eventually occur. The most common symptoms in gingival conditions are swelling and reddening of the gum tissue and, in more vigorous cases, bleeding that occurs when the teeth are even lightly brushed or flossed.

Luckily, gingivitis doesn’t act to cause loss of bone and connective tissue. When it’s not properly treated, though, a more serious form of periodontal gum disease can ensue, which is called “periodontitis.” Literally, it means “inflammation of the mouth.” In it, tissue of the gums begins to pull back from the teeth and the pockets of space that result eventually develops an infection.

The body, in response to this infection, begins to fight it vigorously. As a result, this infection-fighting activity can cause the breakdown of connective tissue and bone that supports the teeth and keeps them in place. If this condition is left untreated, the tissue, bone and teeth can be permanently lost. The main treatment usually involves prescription medication or, in extreme cases, surgery of various types.

As far as preventive dental care, the answer is obvious; regular brushing (at least twice a day) and flossing (at least once a day). Additionally, don’t smoke or use tobacco in its various forms (tobacco use is a risk factor) and get checked by a dentist on a regular basis. Lastly, try to eat a well-balanced diet. Periodontal gum disease is completely preventable, so work hard to keep it from appearing.

Visiting your oral care professional often is one of the most important things that you can do for your mouth, if you have kids, you must make sure that they do the same, to protect from gum disease also known as periodontal disease.

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