THE STAGES OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE
 Periodontics involves the treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth; simply put, the bone around the teeth, and the gums that cover the bone. Treatment can be done to arrest disease, improve esthetics, or both.
A normal, healthy tooth is anchored to the bone and gum by fibers. There is a normal but narrow space around each tooth known as the sulcus.
Bacterial deposits, or "plaque", can build up on the tooth surface causing irritation to the gum and periodontal ligament fibers. This early and reversible stage is known as GINGIVITIS.
As the breakdown worsens, the space around the tooth deepens. The sulcus is now called a pocket. The depth of the pocket is measured carefully, and provides information as to the stage of the disease.
 The plaque and its byproducts attack further, causing more of the fibers and bone support to be lost. This stage is called PERIODONTITIS. The tooth might loosen, and the root may become exposed and sensitive. Unless treated, the tooth may fall out or need to be removed.
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