Moreover, both parents were still living and well. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease. It begins with the accumulation of plaque, a form of dental rust. In contrast to healthy gums that are coral pink and firm, unhealthy gingival tissue is inflamed, dark red, infected and receding from the teeth. The first sign of gingivitis is bleeding gums when the teeth are brushed.
Periodontal disease is the advanced stage of gum disease.
A progressive bacterial infection of the gums destroys the fibres that attach teeth to bone. In 1996, Dr. Joseph B. Muhlestein, at the University of Utah, reported a startling discovery. This is not the same bacteria that is associated with sexually transmitted disease. Now, a report from Johns Hopkins says that other studies have also implicated chlamydia pneumoniae. In addition, the bacterium H pylori that causes the majority of stomach ulcers has been linked to CHD, along with infectious agents that cause periodontal disease.