Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontis are serious infection that left untreated can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means” around the tooth”. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the stick, colourless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.

Periodontal disease is often painless and develops slowly and progressively. Sometimes it may develop quite rapidly. Unless you see your dentist for regular checkups you may not realize that you have periodontal disease until your gums and bones have been severely damaged to the point of tooth loss. Periodontal disease can occur at any age. Infact, more than half of people over age 18 shows sign of at least the early stages of some type of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is the earliest stage of periodontal disease and affects only the gum tissue. At this stage it is reversible. If not treated, it could lead to periodontitis, potentially damaging bone and other supporting structures. Such damage can result in loosen teeth.

Studies show periodontal disease can contribute to increase risk of heart attacks and stroke. According to some studies, periodontal diseases (which effects the bone and tissues surrounding your teeth) has proven to be stronger risk factor than any of other conditions usually linked to heart disease (eg- hypertension, high cholestrol,age and gender). Researchers have concluded that the bacteria found in plaque (the primary etiological factors causing periodontal disease) is clearly linked to coronary disease. People with periodontal disease are up to two times as likely to suffer a fatal heart attack and nearly three times more likely to suffer a stroke than those individuals without this disease.

A soft bristled tooth brush, with sufficient head length (covering at least two teeth) should be used and changed at first sign of fraying of bristles (happens usually in 2-3 months). Powered tooth brushes are a better choice than manual tooth brushes for anyone who needs assistance for brushing (for example in mentally/physically challenged patients)