First periodontal means "around the tooth". Periodontal diseases are a family of bacterial infection-based diseases that affect the gums and the supporting bone around the teeth. The infection starts when bacteria-laden food residue, or "plaque", attach to tooth surfaces in the form of a sticky colorless film. If left untreated, this infection can lead to tooth loss. Frequently, you may not know that you have periodontal disease. The destruction can occur "silently". Symptoms include persistent bad breath, loose teeth, painful chewing, sensitive teeth, and swollen bleeding gums.

This is the mildest form of gum disease. The gums can be red, swollen, and bleed easily. Frequently, there is little discomfort. Because this form of the infection affects the more superficial support structures of the tooth, it is usually reversible with professional periodontal treatment and a good daily oral hygiene regimen.

This is a destructive form of gum disease. In the case of periodontitis, not only are the gums affected, but so is the bone. Periodontitis comes in aggressive and more chronic forms. The aggressive form is characterized by the rapid loss of the soft tissue attachment and bone destruction in an otherwise healthy individual. Chronic periodontitis, the more common form, progresses more slowly and can be recognized by tooth root exposure (recession) and increases spaces between the gums and teeth (pockets).

These can affect susceptibility and progression of periodontal diseases and include:

• smoking and tobacco use
• diabetes or other general medical problems
• stress
• medications
• pregnancy
• genetics
• poor nutrition