Affecting nearly one-third of American adults, periodontitis is a serious gum disease. Not only does it lead to tooth loss, it also has been shown to raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, and respiratory problems.

1. From the desk of Perry
Westbrook, DMD

2. Affecting nearly one-third of American adults,
periodontitis is a serious gum disease. Not only
does it lead to tooth loss, it also has been shown to
raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, and respiratory
problems. For pregnant women, research has shown
it increases the likelihood of bearing low birth-weight
babies. As a periodontist, Perry Westbrook, DMD,
frequently treats patients affected by this disease.
Although the disease is serious, the good news is it
can be prevented with regular dental checkups and
good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing.

3. So what are the signs of periodontitis?
Here, Dr. Westbrook describes some of the
symptoms he looks for:
• Reddish, purplish, or swollen gums
• Bad taste in the mouth or bad breath
• Pus between the gums and teeth
• Receding gums
• Loosening teeth
• A change in bite

4. Board certified in periodontology, Dr. Perry
Westbrook practices in northern California.