At Arden Dental Center in Bloomingdale, Illinois, Dr. Lu specializes in cosmetic, implant, and geriatric dentistry, and knows all about gum diseases and how they can affect the dental health of patients.

Read on to learn more about the different types of gum diseases.

Different Types of Gum Diseases

Gum disease is an infection that occurs in the mouth that can cause damage to the soft tissues and jawbone. If not treated in its initial stages, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. 

There are several types of gum diseases, each of them with its own specific symptoms and risks. They are: 

• Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a milder form of periodontitis. In its initial stages, it includes symptoms like swollen and red gums that bleed easily. 

Gingivitis is caused by improper oral hygiene. Several other causes are linked to it such as smoking, pregnancy, stress, and inadequate nutrition. 

Good dental hygiene can help prevent this gum disease from developing or advancing to further stages. 

• Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gingivitis. It can cause damage to the teeth and the jawbone. 

When you have periodontitis, bacteria spreads and irritates the gums, causing bad breath and receding gums. When the disease advances, the gums may separate from the teeth and can cause further infection that can lead to tooth loss and soft tissue damage. 

• Aggressive Periodontitis

This type of periodontal disease is more aggressive and advances more rapidly, causing damage to the gums, the periodontal ligaments, and the jawbone. 

• Chronic Periodontitis

This form of periodontitis is the most common and it causes swelling of gingival tissues and the formation of gingival pockets. Over time, these lead to gum recession and tooth or bone loss.

Systemic Periodontitis

If the patient suffers from other illnesses like diabetes, heart problems, and respiratory diseases, they can cause systemic periodontitis. 

If you notice any symptoms like gum swelling, bleeding gums, or redness, contact Dr. Lu at Arden Dental Center in Bloomington, Illinois. Dr. Lu can give you a proper oral checkup and help you prevent the development of gum disease with proper treatments. 

To get in touch with Dr. Lu at Arden Dental Center, call (630) 529-0303, schedule an appointment online, or visit our office at 303 E Army Trail Rd Ste 421, Bloomingdale, IL 60108.