Periodontitis (Advanced Gum Disease)

Picture of healthy gums and periodontitis (advanced gum disease)

Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease. Early gum disease causes the gums to pull away from the teeth. This leaves deep pockets where plaque and bacteria can build up. Periodontitis can progress until the bones that support the teeth are damaged. Teeth may get loose and fall out or need to be removed.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerSteven K. Patterson, BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry
Last RevisedAugust 5, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: August 5, 2011
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine
Steven K. Patterson, BS, DDS, MPH - Dentistry

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