Periodontal disease affects the alveolar bone, the periodontal ligament, the cement of the tooth’s root, and gums. These tissues are in charge of keeping our teeth in place. Plaque, now known as biofilm, is a sticky film of food debris, and colonies of bacteria. If plaque is not removed or mechanically disorganized it will eventually harden into tartar and that will lead to destroy gums, bone, and epithelial attachment. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of tooth loss.

Recent research suggests that there are links between periodontal disease and other diseases like strokes, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, increased risk during pregnancy, and bacterial pneumonia. There is an important link between periodontal disease and smoking. Brushing, flossing, having a balanced diet and regular dental check-ups can reduce your risk of periodontal disease.

If your gums bleed, your teeth wobble and shift, you have bad breath, you have pus around your teeth and gums, your gums are red and puffy, you experience tenderness or discomfort, 14 chances are you have periodontal disease.

Don’t panic, book an appointment ASAP.