Established Gum Disease
Established gum disease is characterized by widespread dental plaque and inflammation of the gum tissues with symptoms of redness, swelling and bleeding. Increased numbers and increasing diversity of oral bacteria continue releasing biologically active chemicals. More white cells enter the epithelium to release more diverse cytokines and prostaglandins. Lymphocytes (B-cells) also infiltrate the gum tissues, releasing antibodies against the spreading oral bacteria. Chronic inflammation triggers the gum tissue and the liver to produce C-reactive protein.
