Periodontal (gum) diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, are serious infections that, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Recent medical research studies are finding an association between periodontal disease and both Lung and heart disease. In one study, men with extensive gum disease (bleeding from every tooth) had over a fourfold greater risk for heart disease than men without periodontal disease. The study also reported an association between stroke and gum disease. Experts believe that in people with periodontitis, normal oral activities like brushing and chewing, can cause tiny injuries that release bacteria into the blood stream. The bacteria that cause periodontitis may stimulate factors that cause blood clots and other proteins that contribute to a higher risk for heart disease and stroke. In rare cases, periodontal bacteria can cause an infection in the lining or valves of the heart called infective endocarditis. The condition is more likely to occur in valves that are already injured or abnormal.

Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. It begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes the gums to become inflamed.


In the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, the gums redden, swell and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis is often caused by inadequate oral hygiene. Gingivitis is reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.

Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums. The toxins stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body in essence turns on itself, and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed. Often, this destructive process has very mild symptoms. Eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.

Causes of Periodontal Disease
The main cause of periodontal disease is bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth. However, factors like the following also affect the health of your gums.