Periodontal disease is the name for bacterial infections of the gums in the mouth. In most cases this diesase is linked to poor oral hygiene. Some people however can have a genetic pre-disposition to the disease. The disease once initiated can progress more rapidly in people who have diabetes, specially if the diabetese is poorly controlled.

Symptoms

• redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or biting into hard food (e.g. apples)
• halitosis or bad breath
• persistant bad taste in the mouth
• shaky teeth in later stages
• recession of gums resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth

Treatment

• regular brushing and flossing (use of a thin piece of cotton or nylon string to clean between the teeth)
• treatment by a periodontist, which includes professional cleaning and may include drugs, and/or surgery

Prevention

• brushing properly on a regular basis (2-3 times a day)
• flossing daily
• regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleaning as required
• balanced diets with adequate amount of Vitamin C

See also

• Actinomyces naeslundii