Periodontal Information

What is periodontal disease?

Around 50% of U.S. adults have at least one area of periodontitis in their mouth.

Gum Disease Infographic

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that causes breakdown of bone and eventually loosening of the teeth. The primary cause is bacterial plaque (the soft white film that accumulates at the gumline). This plaque causes an inflammatory response in the body that leads to bone loss. Plaque is found above and below the gumline and can harden into tarter or calculus. A patient’s genetics also plays a part in this disease.



Symptoms of periodontal disease include: Bleeding gums, swollen or red gums, soreness in the gums, pus around teeth or gums, looseness of teeth, bad breath, and gum recession. However, patients do not always have symptoms and usually have minimal pain.

Periodontal disease has been linked to diabetes and heart disease and is more prevalent in patients who smoke. There are a few different options for control of the disease, depending on its severity.

Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque.
Periodontitis: Plaque induced inflammation that has progressed beyond the gums and caused bone loss around teeth.


Prevention of Gum Disease

Gum disease can be prevented by regular cleanings, good oral hygiene and control of systemic factors (diabetes, hypertension, smoking).

Prevention Infographic


Steps for flossing:

  1. Take an arm’s length of floss (equal to the distance from your hand to your shoulder). Wrap it around your index and middle fingers, leaving about two inches between your hands.
  3. Be sure to floss both sides of every tooth and gently under the gumline. Wipe the tooth from base to tip two or three times.


Brush your teeth after you floss - it is a more effective method of preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Use the Bass Technique for tooth brushing: hold the brush at a 45 degree angle towards your gums and brush in short strokes spending about 10 seconds on each group of 2-3 teeth. Total time should be 2 minutes.