(206) 592-8022

Part of Des Moines Dental Center

Laser Gum Therapy of Seattle

What is Periodontal Disease

The word "periodontal" literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease (also known as "gum disease," "pyorrhea" or "periodontal infection") is an ongoing bacterial infection in the gums and bone around your teeth. This infection leads to an inflammation under the gums, and if not treated, this inflammation can destroy the bone around your teeth. This results in tooth loss. Approximately 75% of all adult tooth loss is due to periodontal infection.

More importantly, research has associated periodontal infection to several serious medical problems, including heart disease, diabetes and stroke (see the "The Consequences of Periodontal Disease" section). As ongoing research continues to define how periodontal disease is associated with these and other health problems, oral health maintenance is essential. Periodontal health is a key component to a healthy body.

Periodontal disease is an ongoing infection in the pockets around your teeth. You cannot fight off the infection alone, but with periodontal therapy, we are able to remove debris and bacteria from the site allowing the gum to heal.

Causes of Periodontal Disease

• Poor oral hygiene
• Dental plaque
• Smoking
• Genetic factors
• Stress or tension
• Diet
• Age
• Illness

Symptoms of Periodontal Infection

These include:

• Red or swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing (pink toothbrush), or at other times
• Aching, itchy, sore or tender gums
• Receding gums (teeth beginning to look longer)
• Pus between your teeth and gums when you press down on the gums
• Bad breath
• Any change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
• Loose, separating or protruding teeth
• Spaces between teeth

If you notice any of the above warning signs of periodontal infection, please contact your general dentist and ask for a periodontal evaluation. Important Note: Your gums can look and feel quite normal and yet deep pockets of periodontal infection can still be present. To be certain about any periodontal disease, ask your dentist to examine your gums for signs of infection.

21904 Marine View Drive South, Suite A, Des Moines, WA 98198 (206) 592-8022 lasergumtherapy@gmail.com