Gum Disease
Gum disease or periodontitis is an inflammation of the gums that, if left untreated, may spread to the bone that anchors the teeth in place. It affects approximately 47.2 percent of adults. Gingivitis accounts for the vast majority of cases of gum disease, although periodontitis, the more severe type of gum disease, affects between 5 and 15 percent of diagnosed adults.
Due to this condition, pockets grow between the gums and teeth, exposing the underlying bone. Sometimes an infection may develop in the tiny crevices between the teeth and gums. As plaque develops and spreads beyond the gum line, the immune system fights against bacterial infection. The bacteria in plaque and the “good” enzymes in the body that fight infections generate toxins or poisons that eat away at the bone and connective tissue that anchors the teeth in place. Gum pockets become worse and more bone is lost as the condition advances. When this occurs, teeth lose their stability, become loose, and eventually fall out. Adult tooth loss is often brought on by gum disease.
Plaque accumulation leads to gum disease due to improper dental hygiene. Long-term exposure to the bacteria will result in a red, bleeding, and swollen gum line.
