Gum disease also referred to as Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease

, is an infection of the tissues that encircle and support your teeth. It is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Because gum disease is usually painless, you may not know you have it. The sticky film of bacteria that is constantly forming on our teeth called plaque causes the Gum Disease or Periodontal Disease. Careful and regular cleaning of your teeth and gums each day can help prevent gum disease.

Types of Gums Disease

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis.  Early gum disease and occurs when dental plaque builds up on teeth, particularly where the gum joins the tooth. The signs of gingivitis are bleeding, redness and swelling of the gum.
• Periodontitis. It is as advanced gum disease that may occur if gingivitis is not treated. The gum margin (the part of the gum that seals to the tooth) is weakened and spaces form between the tooth and the gum. These spaces are called ‘periodontal pockets.’ Bacteria and their products become trapped in these pockets causing further inflammation (redness and swelling).

Symptoms of Gums Disease

Some of the symptoms of Gum Disease are as follows:-

• Easily bleeding Gums
• Soft, red and swollen gums
• Gums that have dragged away from the teeth
• Constant bad breath or bad taste
• Loose or separating of permanent teeth
• When you bite, any alteration in the manner your teeth fit together
• Any change in the fit of partial dentures

Causes of Gums Disease

Some of the causes of Gums Disease are as follows:-

• Lack of oral hygiene
• Smoking, chewing tobacco, chewing beetle nuts, eating pan etc
• Genetics and family history
• Twisted teeth that are hard to keep clean
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Various medications, including steroids, certain types of anti-epilepsy drugs, cancer therapy drugs, some calcium channel blockers and oral contraceptives

Treatment of Gums Disease

The objectives of Gum Disease Treatment are to encourage reattachment of healthy gums to teeth; decrease swelling, the deepness of pockets, and the danger of infection; and to stop disease development. Mild cases of Gum Disease can frequently be treated or ‘turned around’ by keeping up a high quality of oral hygiene. This consists of brushing your teeth by means of an effective technique at least twice a day and flossing daily. If required, your dentist will be capable to give your teeth a comprehensive cleaning and eliminate any Hardened Plaque (Tartar). If you have severe gum disease, you will need to have further non-surgical treatment and, in some cases, surgical treatment.

How to Clean your Teeth

You should clean your teeth vigilantly on a daily basis with a soft, small-headed toothbrush, particularly along the gum line where the gum meets the tooth. This guarantees the gum tissue and supporting structures stay in good physical shape. The watchful use of dental floss between teeth also supports in elimination of plaque.

Related articles

• Basic Facts About Periodontitis and Gum Disease (healthybodylife.com)