Periodontal disease is the loss of the supporting gum and bone that keep the teeth firmly in place. This leads to loose teeth which can become regularly infected and require extraction.
The common signs of periodontal disease are:

• Bleeding gums
• Sore gums
• Bad taste
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth

While some people have more of a predisposition to this disease, everyone needs to take measures to prevent its occurrence. This involves teamwork with the dentist, namely

• The dentist is responsible for removing all the soft (plaque) and hard (calculus) deposits that build up on the teeth attracting the bacteria that cause periodontal disease. For most patients, this needs to be done six monthly.
• The patient is responsible for minimising the plaque on the teeth by adopting thorough oral hygiene procedures at all times.

If this approach is adopted from a young age, there is virtually no need for anyone to lose their teeth due to periodontal disease and end up with dentures.

Even if periodontal disease is occurring, its impact can be minimised with appropriate care. Dr Coumbis can advise on your individual situation at your examination.
Peregian Beach Dental has brochures that are available on request to help explain the above in more detail.