Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is one of the major causes of tooth loss. It affects the gums and bones that support the teeth.
In gingivitis, a mild case of gum disease, plaque builds up on teeth causing inflammation on the gum tissues around them. At this level, only your gums are affected.
If untreated, this may lead to a worse form of gum disease called periodontitis.
One of the early signs for gum disease is when you brush your teeth and you see blood in your saliva.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of the gums and the supporting structures of the teeth that can lead to receding gums.
In worst cases, periodontitis can develop into more serious conditions like bone loss.