Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an infection of the gums that results in the loss of bone and support around the teeth. Like gingivitis, periodontitis is caused by the accumulation of bacteria on the tooth, under the gum line. In addition to redness and bleeding, periodontitis is characterized by the formation of a space between the gum and the tooth called a periodontal pocket. The pocket is the result of bone loss around the tooth. These spaces are difficult to clean and, therefore, favour the progression of the disease. Without treatment, periodontitis can cause the loss of the affected tooth.