Periodontal disease is a chronic infection of the gums and bone that support the teeth. It is caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. In its early stages, called gingivitis, the gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease.

In periodontitis, the gums pull away from the teeth, and the bone that supports the teeth is destroyed. This can lead to loose teeth and even tooth loss.

What are some symptoms that you might have periodontal disease?

According to the Mayoclinic.org you might experience the following symptoms:

• Swollen or puffy gums.
• Bright red, dark red or dark purple gums.
• Gums that feel tender when touched.
• Gums that bleed easily.
• A toothbrush that looks pink after brushing your teeth.
• Spitting out blood when brushing or flossing your teeth.
• Bad breath that won’t go away.
• Pus between your teeth and gums.
• Loose teeth or loss of teeth.
• Painful chewing.
• New spaces that develop between your teeth that look like black triangles.
• Gums that pull away from your teeth, making your teeth look longer than usual, called receding gums.
• A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.

Who is more at risk of getting Periodontal Disease?

A recent CDC report provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:

• 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
• Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

This condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4%), those living below the federal poverty level (65.4%), those with less than a high school education (66.9%), and current smokers (64.2%)

There are a number of things you can do to Preventing Periodontal Disease, including:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where brushing cannot reach.
• See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to periodontal disease.
• Eat a healthy diet. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, which can promote plaque buildup.
• Quit smoking. Smoking damages the gums and makes it more difficult to fight off infection.
• Manage your diabetes. Diabetes can increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Thank you for reading 6 Tips for Preventing Periodontal Disease provided by, Smiles of Round Lake. This article lets you know that you are not alone in the fight against Periodontal Disease.  Smiles of Round Lake is here for you.  We are a family dentistry that works hard to provide all ages with a beautiful smile.  Please give Smiles of Round Lake a call at 847-546-1542 or email [email protected].