Topic Overview

• Topic Overview
• Cause
• Symptoms
• What Happens
• What Increases Your Risk
• When To Call a Doctor
• Exams and Tests
• Treatment Overview
• Prevention
• Home Treatment
• Medications
• Surgery
• Other Treatment

Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the gums, bone, and tissues that surround and support the teeth.

Healthy gums are pink and firm and do not bleed easily. Early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) causes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when brushed.

Because gingivitis usually doesn't cause pain, many people delay treatment. As the disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, leaving deep pockets where plaque can grow and do further damage. This later stage of gum disease, called periodontitis, can progress until the bones that support the teeth are damaged. Teeth may become loose or fall out, or need to be removed.

Treatment for gum disease includes:

• Improved brushing and flossing for mild gum disease.
• Antibiotics or other medications for moderate infections.
• Removal of hard mineral deposits called tartar.
• Surgery for severe gum disease.