Gum disease is typically caused by a buildup of plaque on teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a bacteria-containing sticky film. With an inflammatory response, the immune system attempts to eliminate plaque. The redness and swelling of the gums around the tooth indicate this.

Other factors can also contribute to the risk of periodontal disease. These may include but are not limited to the following:

• Hormonal changes. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, making gingivitis more likely to develop.
• Dry mouth. If the salivary glands in the mouth do not produce adequate saliva to keep the mouth moist, the result is a dry mouth. This problem is usually a result of aging. Medications, radiation therapy, and mouth breathing can all cause dry mouth, which increases the chance of gum disease.
• Certain health conditions. Illnesses can affect the health of your gums. This includes conditions that interfere with the immune system, such as cancer or HIV. Diabetes patients are more likely to have infections, such as periodontal disease and cavities, since the disease impairs the body’s ability to use blood sugar.
• Certain medications. Medications can have an adverse effect on oral health because some may reduce the flow of saliva, which protects the teeth and gums.
• Lifestyle. Smoking, for example, makes it more difficult for gum tissue to heal itself.
• Poor oral hygiene practices. Improper or infrequent use of healthy oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing can increase the risk of gingivitis and other oral problems.
• Genetics. If you have a family history of dental disease, it may contribute to your chances of getting gum disease.

In its early stages, gingivitis is treatable. The sooner your dentist detects gingivitis, the less likely periodontal disease or tooth loss will develop.

Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease (PD), a severe gum disease caused by untreated gingivitis and long-term plaque buildup. It only affects the gum’s surface layers, particularly where the gum touches the tooth. There is no damage to the deeper layers of the gums, teeth, or bone at this point.

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that can develop if gingivitis is not addressed.

Periodontitis affects the covering of the tooth root (cementum), the bone, and the fibres that attach the tooth root to the bone (periodontal ligament).

As a result of gum disease, the gums can become irritated, causing spaces between the tooth root and the gums. These spaces are known as ‘periodontal pockets.’ Bacteria become trapped in these pockets, causing more harm to the periodontium. Bone loss may occur over time, and wider gaps may grow between the teeth and the gums.

Periodontitis can cause permanent damage. It is only treatable and cannot be cured. Gingivitis, on the other hand, can be prevented by practising good dental hygiene and seeing the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.

Maintaining an oral hygiene routine prevents the risk of gum disease. A few tips to avoid them may include the following, but are not limited to:

• Proper oral care includes brushing your teeth and gently cleaning the gum line twice a day – in the morning and before bed.
• To clean in between teeth, use floss, interdental brushes, or another dental tool recommended by a dentist.
• Plaque forms easily on dentures, increasing the risk of gum disease surrounding natural teeth. Learn more about how to care for your dentures and your mouth.
• Regular checkups can help prevent many oral problems. Professional cleaning should be done regularly, usually every six to twelve months, by a dentist. If you have risk factors for periodontitis, including dry mouth, taking certain medications, or smoking, you may require cleaning more frequently.