The word periodontal literally means "around the tooth." Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold your teeth in your mouth. Left untreated, these diseases can lead to tooth loss. There are many forms of periodontal disease:

Gingivitis
Aggressive periodontitis
Chronic periodontitis
Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases
Necrotizing periodontal diseases

What is my risk of having or developing periodontal disease?
Millions of people have periodontal disease and don’t know it. The American Academy of Periodontology's patient self-assessment tool will help you become familiar with the main risk factors and assess your own risk for periodontal disease.

Who is a periodontist?
A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists receive extensive training in these areas, including three additional years of education beyond dental school. Periodontists are familiar with the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. In addition, they can perform cosmetic periodontal procedures to help you achieve the smile you desire. Often, dentists refer their patients to a periodontist when their periodontal disease is advanced. However, you don't need a referral to see a periodontist. In fact, there are occasions when you may choose to go directly to a periodontist or to refer a family member or friend to your own periodontist.