Question:

Is there a timeline, from the beginning symptoms of gum disease to the most visible symptoms of the disease. Does it occur over a period of months; or can it take years to reach the stage where abcesses, pus and darken gums appear?

Answer:

The answer to your question is not a clear one. Yes, there is a timeline, but it is different for each person. Gum disease starts as some redness and inflammation and if not taken care of, can lead to periodontal (gum and bone) disease. This can take months or years depending upon a person`s oral hygiene, their immune system and resistance to bacteria in the mouth, and systemic diseases they may have.

For more information:

Go to the Dental Hygiene health topic.