Symptoms of periodontal disease

There are five cardinal symptoms of early periodontal diseases that show up in the gum tissues: redness, tendency to bleed easily, tenderness, sponginess and very slight swelling. Any one of these symptoms or all may be present at one time.


It is a known fact that periodontal disease is caused by allowing excessive bacteria to remain on the teeth and the surrounding tissues. The collection of bacteria, food debris and saliva are commonly referred to as plaque. If plaque is allowed to remain for too long, the minerals from the saliva in the mouth will cause it to calcify and form what is termed calculus or tartar. Thus the presence of plaque or calculus can lead to periodontal disease and eventually the tissues begin to show the results.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease, should be properly referred to as periodontal disease; that is, a disease that affects those tissues surrounding the teeth. Early signs of periodontal disease are first noticed in the gingival or "gum" tissues. If a disease is allowed to progress, it may lead to recession of the gingival tissue, destruction of the underlying supporting bone, loosening of teeth, and eventually tooth loss.

Periodontal disease is the number one reason for tooth loss in the adult population.

Prevention - the best way to avoid potential gum problems

Gum disease can prompt the need for surgery. The best way to head this off is careful attention to home care, which includes cleaning, flossing, massaging the gums, and vigorously rinsing the mouth. In other words, try to clean as much as possible so no more bacteria is allowed to build on what already exists. The phenomenon can sometimes be reversed.

But if the bacteria build-up under the gumline is allowed to increase, pockets form under the gum. You need immediate attention from a dentist and hygienist to help stop this process. Root planing or scaling, which are methods of thoroughly cleaning under the gums, may be performed and may, in fact, be sufficient to take care of the problem.

Immediate treatment for gum disease is imperative to maintain a healthy, attractive smile and good dental health. If gum disease is allowed to progress, it can cause the loss of every tooth you have.