Periodontics Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of periodontics, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to periodontics are discussed. Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that gradually affects the supporting structures of your teeth.  Generally the disease is painless, and most patients are not aware they have a problem until examined by a dentist. 

Everyone has bacteria continuously in their saliva and mouth.  When bacteria collect on the surfaces of teeth, they form a colorless film called plaque.  If the bacterial plaque is not diligently removed, an infection in the gums will occur.  The plaque can quickly combine with normal minerals and salts in your mouth to form a harder substance called tartar or calculus.  The calculus can no longer be removed using conventional techniques such as brushing and flossing, and must be treated by a dental professional. 

The bacteria produce toxins that cause an immune response in the gum tissue.  Initially, the gums may appear swollen or red and may bleed when brushing.  If the early reversible stages of periodontal disease are not treated by a dental professional, the bacterial toxins can advance down the surface of the tooth to affect the attachment and bone support.  This permanent destruction of bone and support of the tooth is called periodontitis.

Advanced cases of periodontitis can cause teeth to feel loose and eventually lost.  Periodontal disease causes more tooth loss than cavities, and affects more than half of the population at some point in their lifetime. Contributing factors that can affect also affect your gums including:

Recent data has now found that Periodontal disease may be linked and put you at risk for  various systemic conditions including:

If you have any question regarding the preceding conditions, please contact your physician or Dr. Haddad & Dr. Handsmans’ office at (508) 753-5444.  More information on the following topics can be found at www.perio.org