Periodontitis, also called gum disease, is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissues around your teeth and without treatment can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can cause the teeth to become loose and leads to tooth loss if untreated.
Healthy gums are firm, pale pink and fit tight around teeth. Signs and symptoms of periodontitis can include:
- Bad breath
- Gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Bright red or inflamed gums
- Loose teeth
- Painful chewing
- Gum recession - making your teeth look longer than normal
- New spaces developing between your teeth and/or
a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
Periodontitis is common but largely preventable. It's usually the result of poor oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily and getting regular dental cleanings every 6 months can greatly improve your chances of successful treatment for periodontitis and can also reduce your chance of developing it.