Gum disease is a common condition affecting the gums and tissues supporting teeth. Gum disease comes in a variety of forms, from moderate to severe. If you notice any changes in your gums, you should visit the dentist. Continue reading to understand the different types of gum diseases:
Gingivitis
Plaque accumulation on the teeth can cause the mildest gum disease, gingivitis. Red, swollen, and sore gums that may bleed when brushing or flossing are signs of gingivitis. You can reverse gingivitis with the proper dental care. You can avoid it with consistent brushing, flossing, and tooth cleanings.
Periodontitis
When you don't treat gingivitis, a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis develops. The gums could start to separate from the teeth, which may lead to the pockets created damaged. The bacteria and toxins in these pockets may harm the bone and connective tissue that support the teeth.
This will lead to the teeth becoming loose or even falling out. Along with foul breath and a bad taste in the mouth, periodontitis also causes receding gums.
Aggressive Periodontitis
A rare type of gum disease called aggressive periodontitis usually affects otherwise healthy persons. If left untreated, it leads to fast loss of bone and can result in tooth loss. Swollen, crimson gums that bleed readily and teeth that seem loose or shifting are signs of advanced periodontitis.
Chronic Periodontitis
The gradual, cumulative loss of tooth-supporting bone and gum tissue cause the most prevalent type of gum disease. It may take several years to develop, and things like poor oral hygiene, smoking, and genetics can cause it. Red, swollen, bleeding gums, foul breath, and tooth sensitivity are all signs of chronic periodontitis.
Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
An uncommon and severe form of gum disease called necrotizing periodontal disease can kill tissue and harm the bone and connective tissue that support teeth. It frequently occurs in conjunction with starvation and poor oral hygiene, and it can happen in patients with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Visit our dentist for gum disease treatment and more information.