Periodontal disease is a slowly progressing chronic inflammation of the gum and other structures that hold the teeth in.

Periodontitis presents when gingivitis is neglected and the inflammation progresses to deeper tissues, including the bone supporting the teeth. Eventually, teeth may become loose or drift out of position. Gingivitis is the earliest manifestation. It is essentially an easily managed inflammation of the gums characterised by puffy, red and inflamed gums that bleed readily.

Periodontal disease usually progresses without any pain or discomfort until eventually tooth loss is inevitable. Pain is not usually a feature until it is too late.