Gum Disease - Oral Health Complication

Explore gum disease, an oral health condition caused by bacterial infection and inflammation of the gums, leading to redness, swelling, and potential tooth loss.

Gum Disease FAQ

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What is a severe gum disease?

Gum disease occurs when the tissue that surrounds and supports your teeth becomes inflmamed. Severe gum disease can lead to the loss of tissues that hold your teeth in place. What are the types of gum disease? Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease. It occurs when plaque builds up on your teeth along your gumline.

What causes gum disease?

Gum disease is caused by plaque, which is a sticky layer of germs that builds up on teeth and along the gumline. The germs (bacteria) in plaque irritate the gums, causing them to bleed easily. If the plaque is not brushed off, it can become hard and further irritate the gums. Hardened plaque is called ‘calculus’ or ‘tartar’.

What is periodontal (gum) disease?

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It's typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden. It starts with swollen, red, and bleeding gums.

What is gum (periodontal) disease?

Gum (periodontal) disease is an inflammatory disease that affects the hard and soft structures that support the teeth. 1 Tooth loss may affect the ability to chew food and can get worse with the number and type of missing teeth—affecting a person’s diet quality. 3