Healthy Gums
One of the main purposes of practising dental hygiene is to keep our gums healthy.
Gums that are pink, not red or brown and have a firm texture are typically considered healthy.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is defined as a serious oral health issue that is typically a result of poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup.
Gum disease can cause the gums to become red, swollen, tender and bleed while brushing or flossing.
Gum disease may also cause bad breath, receding of the gum tissue, bone loss, and tooth loss if not addressed urgently.
Gum disease is also called periodontal disease and has two stages:
- Gingivitis: Earliest stage of gum disease
- Periodontitis: Advanced gum disease
Gingivitis is reversible with practising good oral hygiene, regular brushing and flossing, and regular dental visits.
Untreated gingivitis may eventually lead to advanced periodontal disease, called periodontitis.
The Advanced Periodontal Disease May Lead to Substantial Bone Loss
Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that may damage the soft tissue and bones that support the teeth.
Left untreated, the infection advances and spreads to the supporting structures around the teeth. The patient may experience irreversible bone loss and tooth loss at this
Gum Diseases Most Common Symptoms
The following symptoms may be warning signs of gum disease:
- red or darker gums
- swollen gums
- loose teeth
- gums that are tender or sore
- bleeding gums
- gum recession
- halitosis (persistent bad breath)
- tooth sensitivity
- painful chewing
- tooth loss in severe cases
Receding gums causes the gums to pull away from the teeth’ surface, causing the teeth’ roots to become exposed. Receding gums is one of the common symptoms of advanced periodontal diseases.
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