Gum disease is one of the most pervasive oral problems in the UK. Reliable estimates put the proportion of people who will suffer from gum disease at some point at over 90 percent. Fortunately, only about ten percent of those cases will require treatment.

The most serious form of gum disease is called periodontitis, which literally means an inflammation around the teeth. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to pain and tooth loss. Like all gum diseases, it is caused by bacteria that accumulate in the mouth.

The disease begins as a relatively minor condition known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is the most common form of gum disease. It causes swelling and redness and in severe, untreated cases, gingivitis may result in bleeding. A good gum disease guide should tell you everything you need to know about it.

When a person ignores the warning signs of gingivitis and does not consult his dentist or periodontist, the disease may progress to the next stage, periodontitis. This disease is quite serious because it often involves severe inflammation below the gum line. This inflammation can and often does damage the tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place.

At this stage, the gums will hurt and probably bleed. But if the person still refuses to seek professional help, the gums will actually begin to separate from the teeth and spaces will form. The condition will get worse and worse until the tissue and jaw bone can no longer support the teeth. At this point, the teeth must be removed.