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Types of Periodontal Diseases

Periodontal disease causes gums to become red and swollen. It also causes people to have bad breath because of the bacteria that has built up along the gums and teeth. They often bleed when brushing. Causes of periodontal disease are poor dental hygiene, smoking, and certain illnesses like diabetes and heart disease. Periodontal disease can range from a mild form of gingivitis to aggressive periodontitis. However, periodontal disease can be treated by deep cleanings and medications.

  1. Gingivitis

    • Gingivitis is a mild form of periodontal disease. Signs of gingivitis are inflammation of the gums which makes them become swollen or red. The gums become tender, bleeding easily when brushing or flossing teeth. Gingivitis is usually not painful. This condition is usually caused by food or plaque becoming trapped between the gums and teeth. If left untreated, the bacteria can lead to serious dental damage.

    Periodontitis

    • When gingivitis is left untreated, it becomes a mild form of periodontitis. This occurs when plaque builds up below the gum line. Toxins in that plaque build up begin to irritate the gums. These toxins cause an inflammatory reaction and the body basically turns on itself. Tissue of the gum and teeth are broken down and destroyed. This causes the gums to begin separating from the teeth. When this happens, pockets are formed and become infected. If periodontitis is left untreated, it can cause teeth to become loose and eventually to have to be pulled.

    Aggressive Periodontitis

    • Aggressive periodontitis may begin in early childhood. Some patients, by the age of 20, may experience bone loss or loss of teeth. This type of periodontitis occurs mainly in young people. Factors linked to this type of gum disease are immune deficiencies and genetics. If treatment occurs in early stages, minimal loss is suffered to the gums and teeth. Aggressive periodontitis can remain under control by regular visits to the dentist.

    Chronic Periodontitis

    • This type of periodontal disease can begin in adolescents and slowly progresses. Problems may not arise until a person reaches their early 30's. Problems with red, inflamed gums begin as well as bone loss and destruction. Some experts believe that this could get worse or better depending on the body's responses to the immune system.

    Periodontitis Caused By Diseases

    • Some periodontal diseases can be caused by actual health problems. Heart disease, diabetes, HIV, and some white blood cell disorders are known to cause periodontal disease. Routine visits to the dentist can help minimize loss of the gums and bone of the teeth.

    Pregnancy Gingivits

    • Pregnancy gingivitis is caused by an increase in hormone levels. An increase in hormone levels can cause swollen, red and tender gums. This often leads to bleeding gums when brushing or flossing teeth. Pregnancy gingivitis has most of the same symptoms as acute gingivitis. According to the American Academy of Periodontology around 50% of pregnant women experience this condition. This is most common between the second to eighth month of pregnancy. Preventing pregnancy gingivitis is simple, practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day will help prevent gingivitis. Once the baby is born, the gums return to their normal state before pregnancy.

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