Drs. Golovan & Golovan
Norman Golovan D.D.S. 
Bruce Golovan D.M.D.
Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

28790 Chagrin Blvd. #300
Woodmere Village, OH 44122
(216) 591-0022
Designing Healthy and Beautiful Smiles!

Call for an appointment today!
(216) 591-0022

What is Periodontal Disease?


Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth.  Your gum tissue is not attached to the teeth as high as it may seem.  There is a very shallow v-shaped crevice called a sulcus between the tooth and gums.  Periodontal diseases attack just below the gum line in the sulcus, where they cause the attachment of the tooth and its supporting tissues to break down.  As the tissues are damaged, the sulcus develops into a pocket: generally, the more severe the disease, the greater the depth of the pocket.
Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth.  It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because periodontal (gum) disease is usually painless, however, you may not know you have it.

It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs.  This is one reason why regular dental cleanings & periodontal examinations are very important.  Treatment methods depend upon the type of disease and how far the condition has progressed.  Good oral hygiene at home is essential to help keep periodontal disease from becoming very serious or recurring.  Brush, clean between your teeth, eat a balanced diet, and schedule regular dental visits for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Some factors that increase the risk of Periodontal Disease are:
-Tobacco smoking or chewing.
-Systemic diseases such as diabetes.
-Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives.
-Bridges that no longer fit properly.
-Crooked teeth.
-Fillings that have become defective.
-Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives.


What are the signs of Periodontal Disease?

-Gums that bleed when you brush your teeth.
-Red, swollen or tender gums.
-Gums that have pulled away from the teeth.
-Bad breath that doesn't go away. (Halitosis)
-Pus between your teeth and gums.
-A change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite.
-A change in the fit of partial dentures.
-Loose teeth.


How can I prevent Periodontal Disease?

-Brush your teeth well, twice a day.
-Clean between your teeth everyday.
-Maintain a healthy diet.
-Visit your dentist regularly.
Tobacco smoking or chewing
Systemic diseases such as diabetes
Some types of medication such as steroids, some types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives
Bridges that no longer fit properly
Crooked teeth
Fillings that have become defective
Pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives