Periodontal disease is a disease of the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth.
It is the greatest single cause of tooth loss in adults. Ultimately, this plaque build-up interferes with the attachment of the tooth to the gum and bone. Although the severe stages of this disease are found less often in children than in adults, it is believed that a large percentage of periodontal problems in later life are due to oral neglect or improper oral care during childhood and adolescence. Periodintal disease usually progresses over a long period of time with little or no pain. Unless measures are taken to prevent it, periodontal disease can, in time, destroy the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth.