Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is one of the most common and destructive oral health conditions affecting the gums, mouth, and teeth. This condition can lead to tooth and tissue loss, which can occur quickly, with devastating results.
What is periodontitis?
Just as teeth are attacked by bacterial buildup, so are the mouth’s gums and soft tissues. When bad bacteria form a cavity in a tooth, there is a high likelihood that it is also affecting the gums and soft tissues of the mouth. When these bacteria start to affect the gums, it will cause a condition known as gingivitis, which is early-stage gum disease. Gingivitis doesn’t typically manifest with pain or discomfort, so it can be very hard to know when you are affected by it. Symptoms that are known to accompany gingivitis are:
- Swollen gums
- Red and irritated gums
- Gums that bleed easily
- Persistent bad breath