Periodontal or gum disease is one of the major cause of tooth loss in adults. Periodontal disease shows few or no symptoms at an early stage, as it is painless. Patients are often unaware that there is a problem with their gums. Regular visits to your dentist are thus vital for early diagnosis and treatment of gum disease.
The two most common forms of periodontal disease are Gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. This form of gum disease does not include any loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place. Bleeding from the gums is usually indicative of gingivitis.
Periodontitis is advanced gingivitis. It means inflammation around the tooth. In periodontitis, gums pull away from the teeth and form "pockets" that are infected. If not treated, the bones, gums, and connective tissue that support the teeth are destroyed. The teeth may eventually become loose and have to be removed.
