Periodontal disease (gum disease) is a bacterial infection. It might take the form of recession of the gum tissues or as "pockets" (bone loss) in the gum tissues that occur around and between the teeth that ultimately lead to tooth loss. These deep pockets between the teeth and gum tissues are unhealthy because they: Harbor the disease causing bacteria which promote more bone loss; Are a major contributor to bad breath (halitosis); Are sources of bleeding while brushing and flossing; Are impossible for you to clean properly. The gum tissues might become very red and swollen, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. This condition will contribute to foul odors and a bad taste. Those signs are usually obvious. What is not so obvious is that advanced periodontal disease can be almost unknown to the patient. The obvious signs and symptoms are not always present. In many instances, periodontal disease can be eliminated or at least controlled, with the proper forms of therapy, and, if treated in its early stages. The degree of elimination depends upon how much of the supporting bone around the teeth has been lost, along with other contributing factors. The age of the patient is a very important risk factor in designing the correct periodontal treatment. For example, a person in their twenties or thirties with advanced bone loss has a much more serious situation than someone who is fifty, sixty, or older with the same clinical picture. This is why an early diagnosis followed by starting treatment early is of the utmost importance. Smoking and diabetes are major risk factors that usually go hand-in-glove in persons with advanced periodontal disease. Both foster the rapid advancement of disease. Diabetes must be diagnosed and properly controlled before periodontal therapy can be successful. There is emerging evidence that the presence of untreated periodontal disease might be related to heart disease and other systemic diseases. There are several signs and symptoms, which might indicate the presence of periodontal disease: Spaces forming between your front teeth or food impaction between back teeth. Your bite feels uneven or uncomfortable when chewing. You have chronic, migraine or tension headaches. Some teeth have become very sensitive to your bite. There are bleeding gums when cleaning your teeth or when chewing. You suspect that your teeth are loose or that you have receding gums. You have that uncomfortable feeling of BAD BREATH. You clench and grind your teeth either at night or during stressful times. You have been told previously that you have periodontal disease. You have lost some teeth, including wisdom teeth. Back to top