Definition

Noun: A disease that affects the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, primarily the gums (gingiva) and the alveolar bone. It is typically caused by bacterial infection due to plaque buildup.

Usage

This is a medical/dental term. It is used to describe a category of inflammatory conditions affecting the periodontium (the tissues around the teeth). It is often discussed in contexts of dental health, hygiene, and treatment.

Examples

• Untreated gingivitis can progress to a more serious periodontal disease.
• Regular dental check-ups are essential for the early detection of periodontal disease.
• Smoking is a significant risk factor for developing periodontal disease.

Advanced Usage

• "to have periodontal disease": This is the standard phrasing to indicate someone is suffering from this condition.
  • The patient was diagnosed as having periodontal disease.
• The term is often modified by adjectives indicating severity or type (e.g., , ).

Variants and Related Words

• Periodontitis (n): A specific, more advanced stage of periodontal disease involving irreversible inflammation and destruction of the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. It is a subtype of periodontal disease.
• Gingivitis (n): Inflammation of the gums, which is the earliest and reversible stage of periodontal disease.
• Periodontal (adj): Relating to or affecting the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth.
  • The dentist recommended a periodontal cleaning.

Synonyms

• Gum disease
• Pyorrhea (an older, less specific term)

Related Phrases

• Periodontal pocket: A space or gap that forms between the gum and tooth due to tissue destruction in periodontal disease.
• Periodontal therapy/treatment: Dental procedures aimed at controlling the infection and stopping the progression of the disease.

Noun

1. a disease that attacks the gum and bone and around the teeth