Gum disease or periodontal disease is a chronic inflammation and infection of the gums and the surrounding tissues. It is the major cause of adult tooth loss.
The primary cause of gum disease is bacterial plaque. If plaque is not removed each day by brushing and flossing, it hardens into a rough substance called calculus. Toxins produced and released by bacteria irritate the gums and cause the breakdown of the fibers that hold the gums tightly to the teeth. As a result, periodontal pockets form which fill with more toxins. As the disease progresses, periodontal pockets get deeper and the bacteria move down to the bone causing its breakdown. The tooth eventually falls out or requires extraction.
Early signs of gum disease include red, swollen gums which bleed while brushing or flossing. There might not be any discomfort until the disease is advanced and the tooth is unsalvageable. Therefore, it's important to have regular dental exams.

In the early stages of the disease, periodontal treatment involves scaling and root-planing to remove plaque and calculus around the teeth. Antibiotics or antimicrobials may be used to supplement the effects of scaling and root planning. More advanced cases may require surgical treatments.





The various stages of tissue inflammation/tartar formation are depicted in the above 4 frames. Type 1 periodontal disease shown in the first frame shows a slight amount of gum irritation/inflammation. This can progress through the next stages where there is more extensive tissue inflammation and resultant bone loss. Please note that the above illustration is a general example of gum disease.