Gum disease occurs due to inflammation of gums, caused by deposition of plaque on the teeth and along the gum tissue. Plaque is composed primarily of microorganisms. Plaque is of two types depending on its position on tooth surface: Supragingival Plaque & Subgingival Plaque. Supragingival plaque is found at or above the gum margins. Subgingival plaque is found below the gum margins. Plaque can be removed by regular brushing and flossing. If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden and can lead to “tartar” formation. Tartar is basically mineralized plaque that forms on the surface of teeth. Tartar can not be removed by brushing and requires professional cleaning at dental clinic.
The main cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. But it can be prevented and treated, if it is diagnosed at early stage. Awareness of early warning signs of gingival inflammation can help you to take action before the condition worsens. Following are Signs of Gum Disease that should not be ignored.
Bleeding Gums
It is one of most common early signs of gum disease. Bleeding is noticed while brushing the teeth, in the saliva, while spitting. Bleeding may or may not be associated with pain. There are several causes of bleeding gums like aggressive tooth brushing, patients having Vitamin C or K deficiency, any bleeding or clotting disorders, diabetes, hormonal changes during pregnancy, several medications like aspirin, blood thinners, heart medications, oral contraceptives. If patient doesn’t have any medical history or not taking any medication which can induce gingival bleeding, then most common cause is poor oral hygiene.
Inflamed and irritated gums are signs of early stage of gums disease which is known as Gingivitis. If bleeding gums is seen regularly, its time to consult your dentist. Early treatment can prevent the progression of disease.
Red or Swollen Gums
Change in colour and puffy gums are important clinical sign of gingival disease. The colour changes may be marginal, diffuse depending on the underlying condition. Change in colour varies depending upon the intensity of inflammation. Swollen gums occur due to accumulation of bacteria along the gum line.
Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath or halitosis which is not improved by brushing and mouthwash could be a sign of gum disease. Poor oral hygiene allows food particles to collect on teeth surface, between the teeth, carious lesion, gums margins and tongue surface. The unpleasant smell of breath mainly originates from volatile sulphide compounds. These compounds are formed by breakdown of food particles by naturally occurring bacteria, releasing chemicals that have a strong odour. Apart from intraoral causes, one should not ignore extra-oral causes of bad breath like infections of ENT, Lungs disease, Gastrointestinal tract disease, Liver disease, Kidney disease, Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, Hormonal diseases.
If you are struggling with bad breath, then it’s time to consult your dentist. Addressing the underlying cause can help freshen your breath and improve your overall oral health.
Receding Gums
Gum recession occurs when there is exposure of root surface by an apical shift in the position of the gingiva. When gums recede, gum tissue can pull away from your teeth, forming pockets. These pockets trap more food and plaque further leading to more inflammation. Recession may be localized to one tooth or group of teeth or it may be generalized throughout the mouth. This is an advanced stage of gum disease. At this stage, there is increased risk to sensitivity, cavities, mobility and tooth loss.
If you notice your roots are exposed, it is very important to seek dental care. Early treatment can prevent further damage of teeth.
Loose Teeth
If gums disease is not arrested at right stage, then it can lead to progression of disease. In such case, it can damage the supporting structures of teeth, ultimately leading to shifting or loose teeth. This is a serious sign and requires immediate attention. If you are facing such problem, cunsulting Dr Archana Mal at her clinic based in Shela on VIP Road, can help you a lot.
Conclusion
Gums disease is very common but it does not improve without proper oral hygiene habits and professional dental care. By recognizing the early signs, you can prevent the progression of gums disease and can protect your smile.