Gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases, are infections that affect the tissues supporting the teeth. While these conditions primarily target the gums, they can also harm the underlying bone.

The most prevalent type is gingivitis, which causes inflammation of the gums, resulting in redness and bleeding during brushing.

Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental visits can help prevent gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to more severe gum disease, leading to tooth mobility. If it remains unaddressed at this stage, the risk of tooth loss increases significantly. Gum diseases typically result from an overgrowth of bacteria, which often stems from inconsistent oral hygiene practices. However, in rare cases, gum disease can develop without any obvious predisposing factors, ultimately resulting in plaque buildup.