Periodontal, or gum, disease is a serious and chronic infection of the gum tissue around the teeth that can result in deterioration of tissue as well as deterioration of bone that provides support and anchors the teeth. This infection process begins when bacteria in plaque, that is, the sticky film that covers teeth, gets out of control and causes inflammation of the gum tissue. Periodontal disease progresses if this initial condition is not resolved by proper dental care and cleaning of the teeth.
Gingivitis
The first stage is gingivitis, or inflammation of the gum tissue, and according to the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), is the mildest form of periodontal disease. Symptoms include red, swollen (or puffy) and inflamed gums due to plaque build-up, which also may bleed easily during brushing or eating hard foods. During this early stage, major brushing, flossing and professional dental care can remove the excess bacterial plaque and reverse the disease process. If the needed oral hygiene does not occur, the disease then progresses to the next stage.
According to Dan Peterson, D.D.S., at least 80 percent of adults have some type of periodontal disease, the majority of which do not know a dental problem exists. This is why it is crucial to recognize and catch this first stage so that the infectious process can be halted.
Periodontitis
According to Dr. Peterson, the difference between gingivitis and periodontal disease is that gingivitis infects the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth while the periodontitis disease process goes deeper beyond tissue and invades the bone that anchors the teeth. Thus, hardened plaque or tartar bacteria eventually invade the gum-line and destruction begins in earnest to the point that gums may begin to separate or pull away from the teeth. Consequently, what results are "pockets" for bacteria to invade, which eventually become loaded with toxic plaque and bacteria that moves deeper and erodes bone below the gum-line. As bone deterioration continues, teeth may become loose as the disease process advances. The damage at this stage is irreversible, yet usually no surgical intervention is performed at this point.
Advanced Periodontitis
In this final stage, the bone that provides support for the teeth is destroyed. Specifically, at least half, if not more, of the bone holding teeth in place is destroyed; it does not grow back. Surgical intervention typically occurs at this stage, for example, to remove loose teeth or clean out an abscess. The individual's bite is affected, which then affects chewing and other oral functions.
