What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease (Periodontal Disease), also known as “Periodontitis,” is an inflammation and infection of the gums and surrounding tissues. It occurs in the following stages:

1. Gingivitis This is the early stage of gum disease, caused by plaque buildup. When plaque is not adequately removed, it leads to gum inflammation, making the gums swollen, red, and prone to bleeding during brushing or flossing. However, gingivitis can be treated and reversed with proper oral hygiene and scaling to remove plaque and tartar.
2. Periodontitis If gingivitis is not treated properly, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum inflammation. In this stage, bacteria spread deeper into the tissues, including the bone that supports the teeth. As a result, deep pockets form between the gums and teeth, leading to gum recession. This condition is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, as it can cause teeth to become loose and eventually require extraction.

Symptoms of Gum Disease

• Swollen, red, and sensitive gums
• Bleeding during brushing or flossing
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Gum recession
• Pus around the gum line
• Teeth appearing longer due to gum recession

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease (Periodontal Disease) is caused by the accumulation of bacteria and plaque along the gumline and teeth. If not properly and regularly removed, these deposits can lead to gum inflammation and spread to deeper tissues. If the condition becomes severe and untreated, gingivitis can progress to the bone that supports the teeth. Here are the main causes of gum disease:

1. Plaque and Bacteria Buildup Plaque and bacteria that are not regularly cleaned tend to accumulate along the gumline and teeth. Over time, this buildup can cause inflammation of the gums, which is the initial stage of gum disease.
2. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors for gum disease. Nicotine in cigarettes reduces blood flow to the gums, affecting the healing of gums and teeth.
3. Improper Oral Hygiene Incorrect brushing techniques, not using dental floss, or missing regular scaling appointments all contribute to plaque and bacterial buildup, which is a primary cause of gum inflammation.
4. Hormonal Changes Hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, or hormone therapy, can make gums more susceptible to inflammation.
5. Chronic Conditions like Diabetes and High Blood Pressure Individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure have weaker immune systems and are more prone to gum disease. These conditions affect the immune system, leading to increased gum inflammation and slower gum recovery after infection.
6. Genetic Factors A family history of gum disease increases the risk, as some individuals are genetically predisposed to gum inflammation more than others.