10950 Gingivitis And Periodontal Disease Gum Disease

Overview

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. In its early stage, called gingivitis, your gums become red, swollen, and may bleed. If not treated, it can move to a more serious stage called periodontitis, which can damage the bone and lead to tooth loss.

Yes. Gum disease is one of the most common health conditions worldwide. Most adults have some form of it, and the risk increases with age.

Anyone can get gum disease, but it is most common in adults. Smokers, people with diabetes, and people who do not brush and floss regularly have a higher risk. Children and teenagers are more likely to have gingivitis, while periodontitis is more common after age 30.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Receding gums – teeth look longer
• Loose teeth or a change in bite
• Pus between teeth and gums

Symptoms in children

• Bleeding gums during brushing
• Red or puffy gums
• Bad breath that does not go away

Symptoms in older adults

• Receding gums and exposed tooth roots
• Loose teeth or changing bite
• Dry mouth due to medicines or age, which adds to gum risk

Causes

Main causes

• Sticky plaque builds up on teeth when brushing and flossing are not enough
• Plaque that stays on teeth turns into hard tartar, which irritates gums
• The body's immune response to bacteria in plaque can damage gum tissue and bone

Risk factors

• Smoking or using chewing tobacco
• Diabetes – especially if blood sugar is not well controlled
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, or menopause
• Some medicines that cause dry mouth or gum overgrowth
• A family history of gum disease
• Poor oral hygiene
• Stress
• A diet high in sugar and low in nutrients

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have a painful gum abscess – a swollen, pus-filled pocket
• If you have severe pain, swelling, or fever
• If you have difficulty swallowing or breathing – this is an emergency

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your gums bleed often when you brush or floss
• If you have persistent bad breath
• If you notice your gums pulling away from your teeth
• If you have loose teeth or a change in your bite

Diagnosis

A dentist or dental hygienist diagnoses gum disease with a simple examination of your mouth. They ask about your symptoms and check for redness, swelling, and bleeding. They also measure the spaces between your teeth and gums.

Tests that may be done

• Probing pocket depth – a gentle measuring of gum pockets
• Dental X-rays to check for bone loss around teeth
• Checking for loose teeth or sensitivity

What to expect at your appointment

The exam is usually painless. The dentist may use a small probe with marked lines to measure gum pockets. They may also take X-rays to see the level of bone around your teeth. After the exam, they will explain what they found and what you can do.

Treatment

Treatment aims to remove plaque and tartar, stop the infection, and keep the disease from getting worse. Your dentist or a gum specialist (periodontist) will work with you on a plan.

Self-care at home

• Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste – but don't scrub too hard
• Floss or use interdental brushes once a day to clean between teeth
• Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash if your dentist recommends it
• Stop smoking or using tobacco – it makes gum disease worse
• Use a soft toothbrush and replace it every 3 months

Medical treatments

For gingivitis, a professional cleaning in the dental office is usually enough. For periodontal disease, the dentist may do a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. This removes tartar and smooths the root surfaces so the gums can heal. Sometimes they may place an antibiotic gel or prescribe oral antibiotics to help clear an infection. More advanced cases may be treated with laser therapy or other techniques. Your dentist will discuss what is best for you.

When is surgery considered?

If deep pockets and bone loss remain after deep cleaning, surgery may be needed. Common procedures include flap surgery to lift the gums and clean under them, gum grafts to cover exposed roots, or bone grafts to help rebuild lost bone.

Living with this condition

Gum disease is a long-term condition that needs daily care. The most important thing you can do is keep up with good brushing and flossing, keep your dental appointments, and follow your dentist’s advice. In time, this becomes a routine.

Lifestyle tips

• See your dentist or hygienist regularly for professional cleanings
• Tell your dentist about any medicines you take
• Manage health conditions like diabetes – keeping blood sugar in range helps gums heal
• Find ways to reduce stress, such as walking or deep breathing

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet helps keep your gums healthy. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which feed the bacteria that cause plaque. Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit, and if you aren't getting enough vitamin C, consider foods like oranges and peppers. Regular exercise and drinking water also support overall health, though they don't replace brushing.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with gum disease can sometimes feel embarrassing, especially if you are worried about bad breath or how your teeth look. These feelings are normal. Talking to your dentist about your concerns can help. Remember, gum disease is a common medical condition – it doesn't define you.

Prevention

Yes, in most cases gum disease can be prevented. The key is brushing twice a day, flossing daily, seeing a dentist regularly, and avoiding tobacco. Even if you have had gum disease in the past, these habits can stop it from coming back.

Screening programmes

Regular dental check-ups are the best screening for gum disease. Many dentists recommend a check-up every 6 to 12 months, but your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you are at higher risk.

Complications

If left untreated

• Tooth loss and damage to the jawbone
• Repeated gum infections and abscesses
• Difficulty chewing or speaking due to loose teeth
• A higher risk of other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease

Long-term outlook

The outlook is good when gum disease is caught early. Gingivitis can often be fully reversed. Periodontal disease is not reversible, but with proper treatment and good home care, most people can keep their teeth and gums healthy for life. It just takes commitment.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.