Periodontal diseases are inflammatory diseases that affect the gums and other tissues supporting the teeth. Periodontal diseases are responsible for 70% of tooth loss in adults. These diseases can be treated easily and successfully when diagnosed early. The prevention or treatment of gum diseases also brings additional benefits, such as the preservation of natural teeth, ease of chewing, and better digestion. Periodontal diseases begin with gum inflammation (gingivitis). In gingivitis, only the gums are affected. At this stage, the gums are bleeding, red, and swollen. It may not cause much discomfort in the early stages. When gingivitis is treated, the inflammation in the gums resolves, leading to healing. If left untreated, the disease can progress to periodontitis, causing irreversible damage to the alveolar bone that supports the gums and teeth.
Periodontitis is a more advanced stage of periodontal diseases. Damage occurs not only to the gums but also to the other tissues supporting the teeth. A "periodontal pocket" forms between the tooth and the gum. The presence of the periodontal pocket facilitates the establishment of infection and the progression of the disease. As the disease progresses, the teeth begin to become loose and may even require extraction.