Periodontitis

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Definition Symptoms Causes When to seek medical advice Tests and diagnosis

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Definition

Early-stage periodontal disease (gingivitis) is seldom painful and causes relatively minor signs, such as red, swollen and bleeding gums. But untreated gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious infection that destroys the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth, and eventually may cause tooth loss.

What's more, long-term periodontitis can lead to even more-serious problems, including higher blood sugar levels and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Gum disease may even affect your unborn child. Pregnant women with periodontitis are much more likely to give birth to premature babies than are women with healthy gums.

Yet periodontitis is both preventable and treatable. Although factors such as smoking, heredity, medications and lowered immunity make you more susceptible to gum disease, the most common cause is poor oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing and regular professional cleanings can greatly reduce your chances of developing periodontitis.

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Symptoms