Gum/Periodontal Disease can eventually lead to tooth loss and other health problems.
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Gingivitis
Gingivitis describes the first stage of periodontal disease, and is often marked by discolored, swollen, and bleeding gums yet very little, if any, pain. It’s primary cause is inadequate flossing, brushing, and overall dental hygiene. Luckily, if identified soon enough, gingivitis can be treated before advancing to periodontitis via professional treatment and proper home oral hygiene practices.
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Periodontitis
If gingivitis remains untreated, it can likely worsen and become periodontitis, where plaque has spread and flourish under the gum causing bone loss around the teeth. As bacteria grow beneath the gum line, they release toxins which inflame the gums. This gum infection eventually atrophies the tissue and supportive bone around the teeth, forcing gums to move apart from teeth. These pockets between the gums and teeth becomes progressively infected, even deeper, and continue the destruction of the bone and teeth. If this continues unchecked for a long enough period, the teeth eventually must be removed.
