Periodontal gum disease and what it’s about eventually comes to the forefront of a person’s thought processes whenever he or she has been told by a dentist that some form of the disease is present in the mouth. Understanding not only what it is but how it can be prevented and treated can go a long way towards soothing anxiety that might arise when the disease has been diagnosed.

In terms of severity, this form of gum disease can range from mild to serious. In mild cases, the gums are inflamed and that’s about it. In serious cases of disease, there could be extreme damage to the bone and soft tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. In the absolute worst of cases, teeth are lost permanently and the need for dentures or permanent prosthetic devices will be evident.

Causes of periodontal disease are fairly straightforward, with the plaque that forms on our teeth hardening into a kind of bacteria that can form into tartar that cannot be removed with just brushing. This tartar can also harbor even more bacteria than is present in the oral cavity of almost every human. Tartar can only be removed through cleaning performed by a dentist or hygienist.

The longer the time that tartar and plaque is allowed to remain in the mouth, the greater the chance that inflammation of the gums (called “gingivitis”) will eventually occur. The most common symptoms in gingival conditions are swelling and reddening of the gum tissue and, in more vigorous cases, bleeding that occurs when the teeth are even lightly brushed or flossed.

Fortunately, this condition doesn’t cause the loss of tissue or bone that’s seen in more severe forms of gum disease. If it isn’t treated promptly, though, it can develop into a harsher form of gum disease known as periodontitis, which means “inflammation in and around the mouth.” Tissue will begin to move away from the teeth and the pockets of space that appear can become infected.

The body, in response to this infection, begins to fight it vigorously. As a result, this infection-fighting activity can cause the breakdown of connective tissue and bone that supports the teeth and keeps them in place. If this condition is left untreated, the tissue, bone and teeth can be permanently lost. The main treatment usually involves prescription medication or, in extreme cases, surgery of various types.

As far as preventive dental care, the answer is obvious; regular brushing (at least twice a day) and flossing (at least once a day). Additionally, don’t smoke or use tobacco in its various forms (tobacco use is a risk factor) and get checked by a dentist on a regular basis. Lastly, try to eat a well-balanced diet. Periodontal gum disease is completely preventable, so work hard to keep it from appearing.

Paying a visit to your dentist on a regular basis is the most important things that you can do for your mouth, if you have children, you need to make sure that they do the same, to protect from gum disease also known as periodontal disease.