A Broadway Dentistry hygienist smiling as she talks with a patient in the chair before a cleaning in Fort Wayne

About Periodontal Disease

Periodontal means “around the tooth.” Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth, and many people have it without knowing, because it is usually painless in the early stages.

How it starts

Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria and saliva. If it is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar), and together they begin to destroy the gums and bone. The disease is characterized by red, swollen and bleeding gums.

A patient talking with a team member in the chair during a dental exam visit at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne

Why it matters

Periodontal disease is the number one reason for tooth loss. Research also suggests a possible link with stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and increased risk during pregnancy, and researchers are studying whether its inflammation and bacteria affect these conditions. Smoking also increases the risk.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet and regular dental visits help reduce your risk.

A smiling patient in the chair at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, which offers cosmetic dentistry and whitening

Dr. Denise Acosta and a team member laughing with a young patient in a treatment room at Broadway Dentistry in Fort Wayne, where fillings and crowns are done

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease

Bleeding gumsGums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or floss.
Loose teethCaused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (the fibers that hold the tooth to the bone).
New spacing between teethCaused by bone loss.
Persistent bad breathCaused by bacteria in the mouth.
Pus around the teeth and gumsA sign of infection.
Receding gumsLoss of gum around a tooth.
Red and puffy gumsGums should never be red or swollen.
Tenderness or discomfortPlaque, calculus and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.