Periodontal Disease Facts   The word "periodontal" literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal diseases are bacterial infections that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold the teeth in the mouth. Left untreated, these diseases can lead to tooth loss. The main cause of periodontal disease is a bacterial plaque, a sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on teeth. Periodontics is the branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists are also expert in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontics is one of the 8 dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. Periodontal disease affects almost 90% of the adult population.  It is a silent, painless disease caused by bacteria (plaque) which accumulate on the teeth above and below the gum line.  There is recent medical evidence that links periodontal disease to heart disease and other systemic diseases.  Removal of this bacteria is required to return the gums to a healthy state.

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