In the early stage of the disease, called gingivitis, gums may swell, turn red and bleed easily. Eventually, these toxins cause the tissues to separate from the tooth and form deepened spaces called pockets. If left untreated, the disease can progress to the bone. In later stages of the disease called periodontitis, the bone and the soft tissues that support the teeth can be destroyed. This can cause the teeth to become loose, fall out, or have to be removed by your dentist.
Periodontal disease can occur at any age.
A May 2000 article in the Journal of Periodontology states that cigarette smoking may be responsible for more than half the gum disease in US adults. The more cigarettes you smoke each day, the greater the odds you'll get gum disease. Quitting smoking seems to gradually reduce the harmful effects of tobacco on your gums. All rights reserved. No information on this server should be assumed to be in the public domain.