The word periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection which attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria which if not removed, causes inflammation which begins to destroy the gums and bone. Periodontal disease is usually characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums, but in some instances, may show no signs.
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss for those over 35 years of age. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease.
Not only is periodontal disease the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests there is a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy. Research is ongoing to determine how inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions. Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.
- Gingivitis is a mild form which, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis.
- Periodontitis can have chronic, aggressive, and acute forms of disease and can be seen as manifestations of other systemic diseases.
- Gum recession and gum tissue overgrowth are also conditions that may require treatment.
Treatments may include deep periodontal cleanings below the gum tissue, antibiotic therapies, surgical treatments to eliminate the pockets that harbor bacteria, bone and soft tissue grafting to replace previously destroyed bone and gum tissue, gum tissue recontouring for aesthetics, and dental implants to replace missing teeth.
Please feel free to call the office if you have questions or concerns about periodontal disease, periodontal treatment, or dental implants.
Jenkintown Periodontics & Dental Implants, LLC
Dr. Neal B. Suway, Dr. Jeremy Toscano, and Dr. Natalie Amoa
Dental Implants, Cosmetic and Laser Periodontics
261 Old York Road Suite 319
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Phone: (215) 887-6060
Convenient to Philadelphia, Abington, Willow Grove, Elkins Park, Cheltenham, Horsham, Warminster, and Hatboro