There are two different types of periodontal diseases: gingivitis and periodontitis. These diseases are caused by bacterial infections of the gums.
Considerations
Almost all gum disease is caused initially by inadequate oral hygiene. Left untreated, gingivitis will develop and eventually lead to more serious periodontal diseases.
Types
Once gingivitis has gone untreated, it can lead to one of these forms of periodontitis: aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, necrotizing periodontitis and periodontitis caused by systemic disease.
Susceptibility
Chronic periodontitis and aggressive periodontitis occur in healthy individuals, usually after they have progressed past gingivitis. Necrotizing periodontitis is almost only found in individuals with suppressed immune function.
