Gum Disease

Healthy gums enhance the appearance of your teeth, like a frame around a beautiful painting

When your gums become unhealthy, they can either recede or become swollen and red. In later stages, the supporting bone is destroyed and your teeth will shift, loosen, or fall out. These changes not only affect your ability to chew and speak. They also spoil your smile.

In estimation, 80% of world’s population experience gingivitis. Gingivitis is a very common and mild form of gum disease and we may not be aware that we have this condition. But, it is important to take it seriously and treat it promptly because it can lead to more serious gum disease (periodontitis) and eventually tooth loss.

What do I know if I have gingivitis?

gingivitis

There are few classical symptoms which including,

•       Swollen gums
•       Bleeding gums during brushing teeth 
•        Bright red appearance to gums
•       Gums that are tender when touched
•       Shiny appearance to gum

What are the causes of gingivitis? 

The main cause of gingivitis is plaque. Plaque is the soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on the teeth and gums. If plaque is inadequately removed, it turns into a hard deposit called tartar that becomes trapped at the tooth and on or under the gum.  Plaque and tartar produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. Severity of the gingivitis depends on the person’s health, age or oral hygiene habits.

Plaque & Tartar on gum line

Why my teeth become loose and longer?

periodontal disease

 

Periodontitis occurs when inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) is untreated or treatment is delayed.

Symptoms of periodontitis:

• Swollen, bright red gums 
• Loose teeth 
• Persistent breath odor or a bad taste in your mouth
• Gums that feel tender when touched
• Gums that pull away from your teeth (recede), making your teeth look longer than normal
• New spaces developing between your teeth
• Pus between your teeth and gums
• Change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

 
PERIODONTITIS ALWAYS DEVELOPS FROM A PRE EXISTENT GINGIVITIS,
however 
GINGIVITIS DOES NOT ALWAYS DEGENERATE INTO PERIODONTAL DISEASE 

What should I do to get rid of gingivitis/periodontitis?

•   Brushing teeth twice daily, morning and night  
•  Use a fluoridated toothpaste
•  Floss at least once daily or use interdental toothbrush to  clean space between the teeth
• Visit the dentist at least once in 6 months for regular check up
•  Avoid sugary foods, tobacco and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol.
•   Keep all removable dental appliances as clean as you would keep your teeth