Gum Disease

Gum diseases affect most people at some time during their life. It is generally reasoned by a build-up of plaque on teeth. One of the common signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. Meticulous cleaning of your teeth each day can help prevent gum disease. Getting treatment for dental problems early can help save teeth that are at risk from gum disease and other conditions. See your dentist if you have swollen or bleeding gums or loose teeth.

The Different Stages of Gum Disease

There are two main stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis
• Periodontitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is 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

Periodontitis is an 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. Bacteria and their products cause more inflammation in the parts of the mouth that sit below the gum margin. These structures include the covering of the tooth root, the bone and the fibers that connect the cementum to the bone.

As the disease progresses and bone is lost, spaces begin to form between the tooth and the gum. These spaces are called 'periodontal pockets'. Signs of Periodontitis include bleeding, swelling and receding gums together with bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth and loose teeth.