Gum disease describes the events that begin with bacterial growth in your mouth and may end- if not properly treated- with tooth loss due to irreversible destruction of the tissue and bone that surround your teeth.
In the early stage of gingivitis gums become inflamed (red and swollen) and often bleed. At this stage the teeth are still firmly planted in the jaw bone. Left untreated, gingivitis will ultimately lead to Periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is an irreversible infection defined by bone loss around teeth.
Gingivitis and gum disease is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar that was not properly removed. Improper brushing and lack of flossing are two contributing causes of this disease affecting the supporting gum tissue and bone. Gum disease is not genetic.
Gum disease usually progresses painlessly producing few obvious signs even in the late stages of the infection. Although the symptoms of gum disease often are subtle, the condition is not entirely without warning signs. Certain symptoms may point to some form of the disease.
