Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is an infection and inflammation of the gums and the tissues that support your teeth. It usually starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up along your gumline and isn’t cleaned away. Cleveland Clinic explains that plaque is the main cause of gum disease.
Gum disease happens in stages. It begins with gingivitis, the earliest stage, when your gums may look red, swollen, or bleed when you brush or floss. If you don’t treat gingivitis, it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the gums and the bone that holds your teeth in place. Periodontitis is often described as mild, moderate, or advanced, depending on how much support has been lost.
Many people don’t notice gum disease at first. Cleveland Clinic notes that most people feel no pain in the early stages, so you can have it without knowing. That’s why regular checkups matter: your dentist can spot changes before you feel them.
If you notice bleeding gums, swelling, bad breath that won’t go away, or loose teeth, call us.