Gum disease

What is gum inflammation (gingivitis)?

Healthy gums are pale, pink and firm. The gum tissue acts as a barrier and fits firmly around the tooth. Healthy gums do not bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth.
Red, swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, loss of bone around the tooth. Around 40% of adults suffer from periodontitis – often without knowing it. Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop slowly and often without pain. The sooner the diseases are diagnosed and treated, the better.

 

What causes gingivitis?

A sticky film called dental plaque constantly forms on your teeth. If you don't clean properly, plaque will be left behind, especially between the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque accumulates in these areas, it causes inflamed gums (gingivitis), with redness and swelling. Inflamed gums may bleed when you clean your teeth.

Prevent gum inflammation

If you suspect that you have gum inflammation, contact your dental professional. Taking note of the advice that your dental practitioner offers is of utmost importance for a successful result, even after treatment is completed. Regular check-ups in combination with your own home care are crucial to prevent the problems from returning.

Signs of gingivitis

• Red and swollen gums
• Bleeding when brushing

Diabetes and gum disease

Did you know that diabetes and gum disease are closely linked? Gum disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar, and people with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, probably because they have more intense inflammatory respones. In fact, gum disease is often considered a complication of diabetes. When you have diabetes, the risk of getting periodontitis is higher. There are signs you can look out for;

Early stages of periodontitis can be bleeding, recession and halitosis. Late stages of periodontitis can be longer looking teeth, increasing spaces between teeth, migration of teeth or teeth drifting apart. It can also be foul taste, mobility or toothloss.  

 

Three tips to prevent gum disease 

• Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day 
• Clean between your teeth once a day, using floss or interdental brushes 
• Have regular check-ups. Detecting early signs of gum disease is key to protecting your health. 

 

Development of gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)

Bacteria in the mouth and food deposits form a sticky mass called plaque, especially between the teeth and along the gumline. Gingivitis (inflammation in the gums)  is the reaction to plaque accumulation. If the plaque is not brushed away, it grows and hardens into tartar. The supporting bone of the teeth breaks down. The gingivitis has developed into periodontitis. In its severe forms the tooth will come loose and migrate from its original position.

 

Information material

Read more in our patient guide Gum inflammation and periodontitis.

 

Always seek help for gingivitis