Periodontal Disease

Dental Checkup

Procedures in Dentistry: Periodontal Disease

The word periodontal means “around the tooth”.  Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that support the teeth.  Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva.  If plaque is not removed, it turns into calculus (tartar).  When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to destroy the gums and bone.  Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Four out of five people have periodontal disease and don’t know it!  Most people are not aware of it because the disease is usually painless in the early stages.

Not only is it the number one reason for tooth loss, research suggests that there may be a link between periodontal disease and other diseases such as, stroke, bacterial pneumonia, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and increased risk during pregnancy.  Researchers are determining if inflammation and bacteria associated with periodontal disease affects these systemic diseases and conditions.  Smoking also increases the risk of periodontal disease.

Good oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits can help reduce your risk of developing periodontal disease.

Signs and symptoms of periodontal disease:

  • Bleeding gums – Gums should never bleed, even when you brush vigorously or use dental floss.
  • Loose teeth – Also caused by bone loss or weakened periodontal fibers (fibers that support the tooth to the bone).
  • New spacing between teeth – Caused by bone loss.
  • Persistent bad breath – Caused by bacteria in the mouth.
  • Pus around the teeth and gums – Sign that there is an infection present.
  • Receding gums – Loss of gum around a tooth.
  • Red and puffy gums – Gums should never be red or swollen.
  • Tenderness or Discomfort – Plaque, calculus, and bacteria irritate the gums and teeth.

Related Doctors

Jason Widner DDS PS Family Dentist
Sammamish Dentist

I am a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, King County Dental Society, South Sound Study Club.

I believe in providing the highest level of dental care possible so that I am caring for my patients the way that I would care for my family.  This involves rigorous continuing education in all facets and areas of dentistry and developing good rapport and trust with the patients.

Sammamish Dentist

I am a member of the American Dental Association, Seattle-King County Dental Society, Academy of General Dentistry, Academy of Computerized Dentistry, and the Sammamish Kiwanis.

I have had the pleasure of  practicing in Sammamish since 1995, was honored in 2012 with the Sammi Award for community service, and have been voted as one of Seattle’s Top Dentists in Seattle Metropolitan Magazine yearly since 2008.

If you are looking for a great dentist in Sammmamish, WA, you’ve come to the right place.

Our friendly staff will ensure that you receive the best possible care.

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