Periodontal Disease

Safeguarding the tissues and bones that support our teeth (and our health)

Periodontal disease, which impacts nearly half of all adults in the U.S., involves the gum tissues and bones that support the teeth. While early stage disease (gingivitis) is usually treatable with improved brushing and flossing, untreated or complex periodontal disease can lead to gum damage, bone loss, and other serious health problems.

Researchers at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM) are at work on new prevention and treatment strategies for periodontal disease, including studies of key risk factors like genetics, smoking, and diabetes. Recent findings on the role of inflammation and immune response may point the way to new treatments to repair or even regenerate damaged tissues and bone.

Oral health is critical to overall health, and what we are learning at TUSDM about periodontal disease can improve health and wellness for millions of people. Make a gift today.