by Leonard Konis

Created on: June 17, 2010   Last Updated: June 19, 2010

Periodontal ("Perio" refers to teeth 2) disease (Periodontitis / Gum Disease  1) occurs when bacteria infects the structures that hold teeth in place including the gums and bones. 3 Bacteria is pass-through in the mouth’s saliva, accumulates to form "plaque". 1 "An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease."

3 Three of four people after the age of 35 have some degree of periodontal disease. 17 

When brushing and flossing is not done frequently "plaque' (sticky and colorless) accumulates on the teeth, eventually builds - up (calcifies) and hardens into tarter (calculus). When tarter accumulates and especially below the gum, requires visiting dental professional or hygienist to remove the calculus and stop the periodontal disease. Periodontitis symptoms include slight bleeding when brushing the teeth, gums appear pink color or more reddish, gums get soft, seldom pain or sensitive teeth and persistent bad - breath (17). 4  The first stage of gum disease is Gingivitus: "The bacteria causes inflammation of the gums (bleeding) that is called "gingivitis". Daily brushing and visit to the dentist or hygienist clears away the bacteria accumulation. When gingivitis is not treated, gums recess and form pockets where infection can develop as plaque accumulates, below the gum line, referred to as periodontitis. The severity of the periodontitis can lead to a loss of teeth or require to be extracted. Most prominently gum disease caused by smoking. During the treatment of periodontitis, tobacco smoking inhibits the medical care. Also, risk factors for developing gum disease include: Diabetes, adverse reaction to medication, illnesses, genetic link, and hormonal changes in (girls) women. "Men are more likely to have periodontal disease than women." 3  Periodontal Disease is linked to cause heart disease. 5

For a long time, researchers have theorized periodontal disease linked to coronary artery disease or heart attack. Recent studies have proven the theory to be correct. 6 "Researchers have found that people with periodontal disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heart disease as those without periodontal disease." 5  A group study, confirmed men under 50 with periodontitis had nearly twice the risk for developing coronary heart diseases, compared to men who had moderate or no periodontal

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