The prefix "peri" means "around"  and "dont" means "tooth."  Thus, periodontal disease is disease around the tooth.   Periodontal disease begins as an infection of the gum (gingivitis)  and, as it develops, it starts to also affect the bone on which the tooth depends for support.  In end stages of the disease, with inflamed and sore gums, plus loss of the bone that holds the tooth in the jaw, the tooth becomes hopeless.  While many teeth are lost due to decay,  many more are lost due to periodontal disease.  Early periodontal problems do not cause pain and so many affected people  do not know they have it.  Early diagnosis is important. To learn more about this common problem,  read on...

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