What is periodontal?

Around the tooth: From two greek roots, "peri", which translates to "around", like in the word perimeter, "dont", which translates to "tooth", like in the word orthodontist, one who "uprights" or "straightens" the teeth. So the word refers to the support structures around the tooth, including bone, gum tissue, and ligaments.

Around the teeth: The periodontal structures in your mouth involve all the supporting structures for the teeth. This includes the gums, bone and periodontal ligaments. Bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, (inflammation of the gums). This can progress to periodontitis, which affects the gums and supporting bone. If left untreated it will eventually lead to tooth loss and artery disease.

Etymology: Perio = around dontal = teeth Therefore the structures around the teeth (gum and bone)

Simple meaning: inflammation around the tooth.