Did you know that our teeth are very much like houses? We can do lots of exciting renovations to these houses but they are only as good as the foundations that support them.

Periodontal diseases are a family of bacterial caused diseases that attack the gums, bone and ligaments that attach our teeth into our jaws. In some cases, so much ligament and bone are destroyed that the tooth becomes loose in its socket. It may eventually fall out, or require extraction.

Periodontal diseases are causes by bacterial infections that attack gums, ligaments and bone. Even if you brush and clean between your teeth every day, you may not completely remove plaque, especially around the gumline. Plaque that is not removed can harden into a rough, porous deposit called calculus, or tartar. Tartar can only be removed when your teeth are cleaned in the dental clinic, let us know when you come in.

There are several kinds of periodontal disease. Often painless, these diseases may develop slowly or progress quite rapidly. And they occur at any age. Unless you have regular dental checkups, including a periodontal exam, you may not be aware you have a problem until your gums and bone have been seriously comprimised.

There are several warning signs that can alert you to the fact that there may be some troubles. If you notice any of the following signs, let us know when you come in for an appointment.

  • Gums that bleed easily
  • Red, swollen or tender gums
  • Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
  • Pus between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed
  • Persistent bad breath or bad taste
  • Permanent teeth that are loose or separating
  • Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
  • Any change in the fit of partial dentures

For your convenience, we have a Periodontist, a dental specialist who consults in our surgery. We may refer you to him if we think you have problems that need special help.