Periodontal Disease

Periodontal or gum disease is a pathological inflammatory condition of the gum and bone support (periodontal tissues) surrounding the teeth.
Most Irish adults suffer from some form of periodontal disease: based on the most recent national oral health survey, only 18% of 16–24 year olds, 8% of 35–44 year olds and 7% of older people aged 65 years and over have healthy gums.

The two most common periodontal diseases are:

  • Gingivitis – inflammation of the gum at the necks of the teeth, and
  • Periodontitis – inflammation affecting the bone and tissues of the teeth.