The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) defines "periodontal" as meaning "around the tooth." Periodontal disease in its mildest form infects the gums, but severe cases erode the gums that support the teeth. Periodontitis, another term for periodontal disease, has long been suspected of contributing to other bodily diseases. The American Academy of Periodontology cites recent studies identifying a direct link between gum disease and coronary artery problems.
Plaque and Gingivitis
All teeth are susceptible to plaque, a bacterial film that attaches to teeth. The buildup of plaque creates gingivitis, causing reddened gums that may become swollen or bleed when teeth are flossed or food is eaten. This condition can be eliminated when the plaque is removed from the teeth.
Aggressive Periodontitis
When gingivitis is left untreated, plaque and bacteria move down the tooth and slip underneath the gum line. The body responds to the infection in a way that erodes the gums, often destroying the tissue around the tooth. This creates a pocket where the tissue has died that is then filled with additional bacteria. The longer the infection is allowed to continue, the greater the amount of tissue loss.
Chronic Periodontitis
Once periodontitis has been allowed to remain untreated, it continues to advance to other teeth, creating tissue damage and pocket formation. Gum tissue recedes around the teeth, allowing additional areas of gum for the bacteria to infect. Tooth loss can occur as a result of the massive erosion of tissue. The gum protects the root of the tooth and the jaw bone, and, in severe cases, damage can be so advanced that surgery is required.
Signs of Periodontitis
Loose teeth and receding or bleeding gums are all signs of significant gum disease. Persons who have been diagnosed with diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease or osteopenia often show signs of long-term gum disease. Studies done at Columbia University Medical Center in 2005 report an increased level of atherosclerosis, a narrowing of the arteries, in individuals with unhealthy gums.
Risk Factors
The American Academy of Periodontology offers an online risk assessment (see "Resources" below) to determine one's chances of developing periodontal disease. Those whose family members have experienced gum problems are more susceptible. Older people and women have higher levels of gum disease. According to the AAP, smoking is one of the most significant links in developing periodontal issues due to the increased size of the tooth pockets near the gums in smokers. Individuals who do not floss daily also have increased levels of bacteria that are directly related to gum disease. Dr. Moise Desvarieux of Columbia University Medical Center concluded, "... [since] gum infections are preventable and treatable, taking care of your oral health could very well have a significant impact on your cardiovascular health."
