Gum disease is an inflammation of the gum line that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth.
Gum Disease also known as Periodontal Disease begins with bacterial growth in the mouth, the localized inflammation of the gingiva is initiated by bacteria in the dental plaque, which is a microbial biofilm that forms on the teeth and gingiva. Nearly 70% of the people are affected by this disease at some point in their life. Though such a prevalent disease most people are unaware of the issue and the problems it can cause.

Gums might also recede around a tooth if it is in an abnormal position.

Receding gums becomes a health concern when the roots of the teeth become exposed, leaving the teeth at risk of decay, infection, and loss.

If people start treatment at an early stage, they can stop or reverse the process of gum recession.

If the recession is severe and causing symptoms, such as tooth sensitivity, pain, or infection, then various treatments are available. These include deep cleaning, medicating infections, and tissue grafts.

Receding gums is a common condition, but people often do not realize their gums are receding until a late stage in the process.

CAUSES OF GUM DISEASE

The primary cause of Gum Disease is poor oral hygiene. If you are not brushing or flossing properly, then the chances of bacteria build-up are high. However, there are other reasons as well such as:

• Smoking or chewing tobacco which makes difficult for gum tissues to repair
• Consuming certain medications (oral contraceptives, steroids, anticonvulsants, calcium channel blockers, and chemotherapy) lessen saliva flow that protects teeth and gums. Some medicines even cause the abnormal growth of gum tissue.
• Crooked or misaligned teeth
• Hormonal changes such as puberty, menstruation, menopause, pregnancy etc. can make your gums sensitive and as a result prone to gum diseases.
• Certain illness such as cancer and HIV make your immune system weak are at higher risk of developing gum disease. Also, people who are diabetic are more prone to get Gum Disease.
• Genetic susceptibility such as family history can contribute to gingivitis

SYMPTOMS OF GUM DISEASES

• Bleeding of gums when you brush or floss your teeth
• Pulling of gums away from the teeth
• Teeth loosening
• Change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite (malocclusion)
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Pain while chewing
• Teeth sensitivity
• Tender, red or swollen gums
• Ill-fitting partial dentures
• Foul breath that doesn’t go away even after brushing
• Deep space formation between gums and teeth