Periodontal or Gum Disease:
Gingivitis and Periodontitis
WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?
Periodontal or Gum Disease is an inflammation of the gums caused by the bacterial plaque that can progress producing toxins affecting the bone and periodontal ligament that surrounds and supports your teeth.
Who is at risk for gum disease?
Any age group, including children can be affected by gum or periodontal disease, but mostly are adults to have high chances. About 75% of adults over age 35 have or have had some form of gum disease. To smoke or certain medical conditions increases the risk of suffer from gum disease. Seems that 30% of the population may have a genetic susceptibility to gum or periodontal disease
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A mild inflammation of the gums, due to plaque buildup, which may cause swelling, tenderness and bleeding when brushing or flossing.
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PERIODONTITIS
When gingivitis is left untreated, it may progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis.
Periodontitis damages the bone, periodontal ligament and gums that support the teeth.
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At this stage, the supporting bone and fibers that hold teeth in place are irreversibly damaged.
The gums may begin to form a pocket below the gumline, which traps food and plaque.
Proper dental treatment and improved home care can usually help prevent further damage.
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This is the final stage of the disease; the fibers and supporting bone are destroyed, which can cause teeth to shift or loosen.
This can affect bite and, if aggressive treatment can't save them, teeth may need to be removed.