Gingivitis is the mildest and most common form of periodontal disease. Inadequate oral hygiene causes accumulation of dental plaque at the junction of the tooth and the gum (Figure 1B). As a result, the gums become inflamed, with common visual signs being redness, swelling, and bleeding.
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When gingivitis is unable to be controlled the inflammation progresses to periodontitis (Figure 1D), a common chronic disease that affects at least 25% of the adult population. Periodontitis is caused by dental plaque that contains destructive bacteria that result in the loss of the supporting structures around the teeth (gum and bone). This causes the formation of ‘pockets’ around the teeth and/or recession of the gums.
Stay tuned, further glossary terms being added shortly.