The word periodontal literally means “around the tooth.” Periodontal diseases are serious bacterial infections that destroy the attachment fibers and supporting bone that hold your teeth in your mouth. Left untreated, these diseases can lead to tooth loss. There are many forms of periodontal disease:

• Gingivitis
• Aggressive periodontitis
• Chronic periodontitis
• Periodontitis as a manifestation of systemic diseases
• Necrotizing periodontal diseases

Source: AAP [www.perio.org]