Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the gums that starts out as plaque, an opaque film on the teeth that hardens to form tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria that attack the soft tissue around the gums. This is the early stage of gum disease known as Gingivitis. Left untreated, Gingivitis becomes Periodontitis which ultimately destroys the tissue surrounding your teeth AND the bone that holds your teeth in place. Except for bad breath and gums that bleed, there are very few early warning signals. The disease advances silently, often without pain, and before you know it, you are losing your teeth and you don’t know why.
Tooth loss is only the most obvious indicator of gum disease. Scientific research has discovered linkage between gum disease and cardiovascular disease and diabetes. When your gums become diseased, your entire immune system is weakened. Treating periodontal disease early is the easiest, and most effective method to obtain health.
Think of periodontal disease like high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Although not painful, if left untreated it can have serious consequences on your overall health. Call Swiatowicz Dental Associates to set up a comprehensive periodontal screening.