What is Gum Disease?

Swelling, tenderness and bleeding from the gums can be described as gum disease. Early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. If left untreated, can lead to a severe stage known as periodontitis. In this article, we will discuss the stages and the causes of gum disease.

Stages of Gum Disease
Gingivitis
This is the initial stage of gum disease. Usually a mild form of inflammation, tenderness and bleeding gums is associated with gingivitis. This is caused by build up of plaque (the sticky substance that forms on the surface of the teeth). The bacteria in the plaque release toxins that irritates the gum. Lack of good oral hygiene and improper brushing and flossing is the major cause for gum disease.

If plaque remains on the teeth for more than 2-3 days, it turns into a hard substance called tartar (calculus) under the gum line. Tartar is difficult to remove by brushing and can only be cleaned by the dentist. If  tartar is left untreated and the build-up continues, and it could lead to advanced stage of gum disease called as periodontitis.

Symptoms

• Tender or painful gums
• Red swollen gums
• Bleeding after brushing or flossing

Periodontitis
If gingivitis is not treated in its early stage, it starts damaging tissues of the gums and the bone that supports teeth. This can lead to loosening and shifting of teeth. In some severe conditions, teeth may even start falling out. Often gum disease at this stage cannot be treated and may require removal of the teeth.

Symptoms

• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Loose teeth
• Gums pull out from the teeth (receding gums)
• Space appearing or deep pockets forming in between the teeth.

Causes of gum disease
Following are the main causes of gum disease:

• Improper brushing: This is the main cause of gum disease. Brushing regularly is not only important but also the proper technique of brushing, and the toothbrush you use make a lot of difference.

• Poor flossing: Brushing removes much of the plaque and flossing will do the rest. Cleaning   your mouth is incomplete without flossing your teeth. Flossing remove tiny leftover food particles stuck in between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach, thus help prevent plaque build up which is the major cause of gum disease.

• Crunching and grinding teeth: Many people have the habit of crunching and grinding teeth that can put your teeth into most of the trouble. Crunching ice can fracture teeth because of its hardness and its cold temperature. It can even cause cracks (visible through microscope). Cracked or fractured teeth can lead to a number of dental problems.

Many people have the habit of teeth grinding during sleep. Teeth grinding on regular basis can damage your teeth leading to complicated dental problems over time.