Periodontitis is a serious infection of the gums. Bacteria that have accumulated on your teeth and gums are to blame. Periodontitis, as it progresses, can cause bone and tooth damage. The damage, however, can be reversed if periodontitis is treated early and proper oral hygiene is practiced.
Early periodontal disease
In the early stages of periodontitis, the gums recede or pull away from the teeth, and small pockets form between the gums and the teeth. The pockets are a haven for pathogenic bacteria. Your gum tissue begins to recede as your immune system fights the infection. Brushing and flossing will almost certainly result in bleeding, as well as some bone loss.