Gum Disease affects approximately three quarters of the adult population at some level. In most cases, it can be prevented or treated in the home by practicing good oral hygiene. There are, however, some other medical conditions that can cause or complicate the situation. Here, we will take a look at the effects of the different types of gum disease.

Essentially, there is only one type of gum disease. This is, however, divided into two different categories based on severity. The mildest level, known as gingivitis, is considered to be a type of gum disease apart from the worse manifestations because it is so mild.

Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. The cause is often not performing adequate oral hygiene, such as flossing or using an antiseptic mouth wash. There is often no pain or other symptoms associated with this condition, so it can be overlooked. It is easily treatable with professional care and an improved program of oral hygiene. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress and become the other, more significant type of gum disease, periodontitis.

Periodontitis is the second stage, or type, of gum disease. This disease is characterized by the gums receding from the teeth and pockets of infection that develop below the gum line. Bacteria in plaque continue to attack the gums and underlying bone that supports the teeth until they become loose and have to be pulled or fall out on their own.

Peridontitis is a progressive disease that can be prevented, and even treated at any point in time up to the loss of a tooth. However, it takes professional care to reverse this condition and prescription medications to repair the damage done to the structures supporting the teeth. Loss of bone is irreversible.

Periodontitis is further divided into four types based on the person’s overall health and the speed with which it progresses.

Aggressive periodontits happens when a patient is otherwise completely healthy and the damage to the gingival tissues and bone structures occurs rapidly.

Chronic periodontitis is normally a slower process than aggressive periodontitis. There can be periods of rapid development and recession of the gums and bone. Chronic periodontitis is the most prevalent type of gum disease and normally affects adults. It can, however, develop at any age. It is characterized by a steady loss of attachment in the gums and bones supporting the teeth. Inflammation of the gums is common.

Periodontitis can be a symptom of a deeper lying disease, rather than a problem with oral hygiene. Diabetes, respiratory problems, and heart disease have been linked with causing periodontitis in individuals, even though they practice exemplary care of their mouths.

The worst form of gum disease is called necrotizing periodontal disease. At this level of disease, necrosis (death) of the structures that support the teeth occurs. The gums, alveolar bones, and periodontal ligaments can all be affected. Conditions that are most closely linked with this gum disease are HIV infection, immunosuppression, and malnourishment, with the latter being the most common cause.

Gum disease is a problem that costs millions of dollars each year for treatment. In most cases, it could be avoided altogether with proper oral hygiene. While there is essentially only one type of gum disease that is characterized by different degrees, it has been divided into two categories with gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, being considered separate from full blown periodontal disease. In some cases, underlying health issues can lead to gum disease despite one’s best efforts at keeping a clean mouth. For this reason, regular checkups with both dentist and doctor are a very good idea.