Various Gum Diseases

Gum disease means an infection in the bones and tissues that hold the teeth. When we eat something, some of the food particles stick to the teeth and remove only when we brush the teeth.

But when brushing is not done properly then the food particles are left on the teeth and let the germs to grow over them and make a layer. This layer of germs is known as plague. This plague contains bacteria that cause damage to the gums and teeth.

Hereditary factors play an important role in gum diseases. Improper brushing and flossing is also an important cause. People with certain medical conditions like diabetes and Down’s syndrome can also develop such condition.

Girls are more prone to gum diseases than boys due to the hormonal changes when periods start or when one gets pregnant. Normally a day or two before the onset of periods the gums may bleed in many girls.

Smoking and eating tobacco also affect the teeth and gums very badly. It leads to diseases as well as bad smell and stained teeth.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two gum diseases, which if not treated lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis is the pre-state of peroidontitis, which cause the gums to become red, swollen, and they also bleed. There is no major discomfort at this stage and it is result of keeping improper oral hygiene. Once some of the above symptoms start to appear, visit your dentist and take care before the disease is further progressed.

If gingivitis is not treated it leads to periodontitis. It is caused when the plague deposited on the teeth reaches the middle of the gums. Gums separate from the teeth and space gets developed in between.

This is because the bacteria have reached there. This makes the holding of teeth week as the bone is affected. This disease develops in various stages. If left untreated, the tooth becomes brittle and breaks.

Proper care must be taken for timely treatment of the gum diseases as these can develop cancer in later stages.