Wyatt Martinez

11/21/2014
Periodontal Disease
Did you know that George Washington lost all of his teeth due to periodontal disease
and was constantly trying to find better fitting dentures? Have you ever heard of, or wondered
why people get Periodontal Disease? Periodontal disease is the build up of plaque around your
teeth that eventually hardens and turns into calculus. There are two common forms of this
disease, which are Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gingival
tissue that surrounds the teeth. Periodontitis is the Inflammation affecting the bone and hard
and soft tissues that support the teeth within the jaw. There are different causes of these
diseases and there are specific ways to treat these diseases.
Gingivitis is characterized by redness and swelling of the gums. Our mouths are full of
bacteria that can cause inflammation of the gingiva. The bacteria are found in the plaque that
builds up around the gum line of the teeth. Gingivitis is a mild form of gingival disease that can
usually be reversed with daily brushing and flossing and regular cleanings by a dentist.
Periodontitis is characterized by the formation of spaces between the tooth and gum,
due to loss of bone and gingival attachment. This is where the formation of the pockets allow
more plaque buildup and more calculus formation. In this process the gum starts to pull away
from the teeth and form pockets that become infected producing an inflammatory response.
Our bodys chemical mediators break down the gingival connective tissue, gingival attachments
and bone starts too recess around the teeth. Additionally bacteria toxins are produced that
break down the bone and connective tissues that hold the teeth in place. If this does not get

treated bone, and gingival tissues will be destroyed, causing untreated teeth to become mobile
and eventually will result in tooth lost.
The main cause of gingivitis and periodontal disease is bacterial plaque. But there are
other things that intensify the harmful effects of periodontitis. Some effects of these secondary
factors are lack of brushing daily, lack of regular dental visits, smoking or stress. You are more
prone to this disease if you have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, Rheumatoid
arthritis, pancreatic cancer and many other factors. Some symptoms of this disease can include
bad breath, tender or bleeding gums, painful chewing, loose teeth, sensitive teeth and receding
gum lines.
When considering treating this disease your main goal is to control the infection around
the tooth. Depending on the severity of the gum disease the treatments may vary. Some
treatments depend on the individual such as brushing and flossing daily and living a healthy life
style. If the gum disease is severe you have a few treatment options performed by a dentist,
such as deep cleaning (Scaling and Root planing), Medications which would include antibiotic
and antimicrobial therapy as well as surgical treatments such as flap surgery, and bone and
tissue grafts, which may result too implant surgery.
According to Dr. Robert P. McBride, If a person can take care of their teeth and gums
they can extend their life by at least 10 years. So why not take care of your mouth?
Periodontal Disease has two common forms which are Gingivitis and Periodontitis. These
diseases can be prevented if you follow all the treatment options, and know what causes these
diseases. As one once said, A better life starts with a beautiful smile.

Work Cited
"Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments." Periodontal (Gum) Disease:
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, 31
July 2014. Web. 20 Nov. 2014.
Dental Health Foundation." Dental Health Foundation. Digital 3 Evolutionarie, Spring 2014.
Web. 20 Nov. 2014.