In more advanced cases of tooth decay, the bacteria can infect your gums (gum disease) as well as the tissue and bones that support your teeth (periodontitis). It can also lead to abscesses in your mouth.
Gum disease
Gum disease (also known as gingivitis) causes:
- red and inflamed (swollen) gums
- bleeding gums when brushing teeth
It is usually caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth.
Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease. In periodontitis, the inflammation that affects the gums also affects:
- the tissue that connects the tooth to the tooth socket, called the periodontal ligament
- the bone in the jaw that contains the sockets of the teeth, called the alveolar bone
Periodontitis can cause a gap to develop between the tooth and gum, making the tooth feel loose and, in some cases, fall out.
A mild case of gum disease can usually be successfully treated with good oral hygiene. This should include brushing the teeth twice a day (in the morning and last thing at night) and flossing at least three times a week.
If gum disease is not treated, it can develop into periodontitis and more serious complications.
Periodontitis can never be cured. But further loss of bone can be stopped if you keep your teeth clean and remove plaque every day. You will need to go for regular check-ups with your dentist and hygienist.
See the Health A-Z topic on gum disease for more information.
Dental abscesses
In some cases of advanced tooth decay, bacteria can cause a pus-filled swelling to develop in your mouth. This is known as a dental abscess.
A dental abscess can cause severe pain, and you may also have other symptoms of infection, such as fever.
Dental abscesses can be treated by draining away the pus and removing any damaged tissue. For more information, see the Health A-Z topic on dental abscess.
