- One of the ways to treat gingivitis and periodontitis is to avoid periodontal disease (“peri” – around; “odont” – tooth), which is caused by bacteria that attack the tissues around the teeth.
- If left untreated, this bacterial gum infection can progress from gingivitis (“gingival” – gum; “itis” – inflammation) to periodontitis, which results in bone loss around your teeth.
- As the bone tissue is lost, the gum tissues detach from the teeth and form little pockets that provide an even better place for bacteria to live — where your brush and floss can’t reach.
- As periodontal disease advances leading to more bone loss, tooth loss can result.
- The good news is that periodontal disease can be controlled, even at more advanced stages.
Healthy gums and teeth make a healthy life.
