Not brushing and flossing or getting professional cleanings regularly encourages plaque and tartar formation. Tips for Preventing Periodontal Disease . Even after you've developed gum disease, you can stop its progression and reverse its symptoms by getting professional treatment and practicing good oral hygiene at home. See Treating Periodontal Disease for more information. Gingivitis Gingivitis is the stage of periodontal disease when the gums are inflamed and beginning to pull back from the teeth, but there is no damage yet to the connective tissue and bone.
Ordinary gingivitis is the most common and least severe form.
Gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily. People with gingivitis may have persistent bad breath. Treatment at this stage of the disease is very effective. When an allergy or a skin disease is the cause, tissue may literally peel away from the gum. In the most severe form of gingivitis, known as acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, the gums are so infected that tissue begins to die.