periodontal disease

Disease of the gums and bone supporting the teeth, caused by the accumulation of plaque and micro-organisms; the gums recede, and the teeth eventually become loose and may drop out unless treatment is sought. Bacteria can eventually erode the bone that supports the teeth, so that surgery becomes necessary.

Periodontal disease affects an estimated 10% of the world's population. A gel treatment became available early 1997 in Britain and the USA. The gel is applied during surgery and stimulates gum tissue regrowth. About 70% of tissue regrows. Australian researchers discovered in 2000 that aspirin in low doses might be effective in helping to prevent the disease.