Periodontitis and gingivitis, are serious infections in and around the gums that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." This disease can affect one tooth or many teeth.

It begins when the bacteria in plaque causes the gums to become inflamed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Eventually with continued bone loss there will not be enough bone to support the roots of the teeth causing them to come lose or fall out. If you're diagnosed with periodontal disease, your periodontist may recommend periodontal surgery. Periodontal surgery is necessary when your periodontist determines that the tissue around your teeth is unhealthy and cannot be repaired with non-surgical treatment.

Posted: Friday 9th June 2006, 4:39 AM

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