Who gets periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease can affect anyone and aggressive forms may even affect children. Genetic susceptibility is a key factor, but so are other lifestyle choices such as alchohol and tobacco use. Tooth grinding or an uneven bite may also contribute to gum disease development and progression. Those with poor home care and infrequent professional care are at higher risk for developing gum disease.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gum tissue and other structures supporting the teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, and may also interfere with other systems of the body. Several research studies have associated gum disease with other chronic inflammatory diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. This excerpt from the AAP website is a good definition for "what is periodontal disease. "  "Emerging science is showing that the health of the gums and periodontal tissues is related to many systemic issues as well, specifically diabetes, heart disease and other neurologic problems."  

What are the signs of periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal disease is often silent, meaning symptoms may not appear until an advanced stage of the disease. However, warning signs of periodontal disease include the following:

• Red, swollen or tender gums or other pain in your mouth
• Bleeding while brushing, flossing, or eating hard food
• Gums that are receding or pulling away from the teeth, causing the teeth to look longer than before
• Loose or separating teeth
• Pus between your gums and teeth
• Sores in your mouth
• Persistent bad breath
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• A change in the fit of partial dentures

There are not always outward signs of periodontal disease, you may not be aware that you have it, but more than 40% of all Americans are affected by age 35. Prevalence also tends to increase with age. For more information please visit the AAP website.