Gingivitis includes swelling and bleeding
of the gums, bad breath, or a bad taste in your mouth. Good teeth-brushing and flossing can reverse the affects of gingivitis.
Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is an advanced and invasive form of
gingivitis that causes sore gums and a whitish membrane on the gums. It
requires antibiotics as part of the treatment.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis occurs when bacterial toxins and
enzymes destroy the connective tissue and bone.
The gums draw back, and the roots of the teeth are exposed. The teeth may become very sensitive to temperature changes, or new cavities can develop.
The pocket between the tooth and the gums deepens; plaque in this area is very difficult to remove. Bacteria invade the surrounding structures.
When the gums pull away from the teeth, pus develops between the teeth and the gums or the permanent teeth become loose in their sockets. Only a dentist can decide whether the teeth can be saved.