There are many different Periodontal (gum) diseases. The two most common are gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontal diseases are chronic bacterial, gum infections that can lead to other problems such as losing your teeth. Periodontal is a term that means, around the tooth. Diseases such as these, affect the bone and gums that actually support your teeth. Periodontal diseases start from the formation of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a colorless residue that forms on the teeth from everyday eating and drinking. The bacteria in plaque causes inflammation (swelling) of the gums that eventually can lead to periodontal diseases.

The most common and easily contractible periodontal disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild swelling of the gums, causing the gums to occasionally bleed. There is usually no discomfort when you have gingivitis, so people just live with it. The bigger problem is when gingivitis is left untreated. This results in periodontitis.

Periodontitis occurs when plaque begins to form below the lining of the gums. The bacteria in the plaque causes massive gum irritation and inflammation that seriously affects the bone and tissues that support your teeth. Spaces (pockets) between the teeth begin to form and become even more infected. This destructive process repeats itself over and over, eventually causing your teeth to become loose. If they become too loose, they must be removed.

The main cause of periodontal diseases is of course, bad oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing of your teeth will dramatically reduce the formation of plaque. If you contract gingivitis, it is reversible if you get professional treatment as soon as possible. Once untreated gingivitis advances into periodontitis, you will have much bigger problems.

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