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The word "periodontal" means "around the tooth." Periodontal disease attacks the gums and the bone that supports the teeth. Plaque is a soft, sticky film of food debris, bacteria and saliva that attached to tooth surfaces. If plaque is not removed from the teeth, it calcifies and turns into hard tartar or "calculus." When plaque and calculus are not removed, they begin to eat away and destroy the gums and the bone. Periodontal disease is characterized by red, swollen, bleeding gums. Four out of five people have active periodontal disease and aren't even aware of it. Most people are not aware because the disease is typically painless in the early stages. It is the number one reason for tooth loss, but recent research indicates that there may be link to periodontal disease and other conditions such as stroke, pneumonia, diabetes, low fetal birth weight and heart disease. Dr. Kim will let you know if you have active periodontal disease. And together, we can get your gums to ideal health.