What Is Gum Disease?

Gum disease (also called periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is the major cause of tooth loss in adults and because gum disease is usually painless you may not know you have it.

Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth. These bacteria create toxins that can damage the gums.

In the early stage of gum disease, called gingivitis, the gums can become red, swollen and bleed easily. At this stage, the disease is still reversible and can usually be eliminated by daily brushing and flossing.

In the more advanced stages of gum disease, called periodontitis, the gums and bone that support the teeth can become seriously damaged.
The damage is progressive and for the most part irreversible.
The teeth can become loose, fall out or have to be removed by a dentist.
There are several forms of periodontitis, mainly differentiated by the age the damage starts and its severity and the speed of progression.
The progress of gum disease is erratic and unpredictable.

How do I get it?

There are several risk factors for periodontal disease.  There is evidence to show that some people are genetically more likely to get gum disease. Around 15% of the population are very susceptible to gum disease and generally get  a lot of damage as a young adult. Another 15% are almost immune and the rest are susceptible to some degree.
It is also clear that once you have been shown to be susceptible then you are always at risk of the disease returning.
Smokers are far more likely to get severe destructive gum disease.
The disease is also far more resistant to treatment in smokers, and it may not be controllable if they do not stop.
Diabetics are more prone to  gum disease.
One group of blood-pressure pills( calcium channel blockers) and an anti-epileptic drug( phenytoin) can cause the gum edges to overgrow, and this makes plaque control very difficult.

What to Look For

If you notice any of the following signs of gum disease a professional assessment by a dentist would be advisable

   * gums that bleed when you brush your teeth
   * red, swollen or tender gums
   * gums that have pulled away from the teeth
   * bad breath that doesn't go away
   * pus between your teeth and gums
   * loose teeth
   * a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite
   * a change in the fit of partial dentures

 Normal, healthy gums

Healthy gums and bone anchor the teeth firmly in place. Bacterial plaque buildup is minimal

Periodontitis

Unremoved plaque hardens into calculus (tartar) with plaque on the surface. As plaque and calculus continue to build up, the point of attachment of the gums to the teeth begins to move down the tooth root and deepening pockets form between the teeth and gums.

Advanced periodontitis

The gums recede further or the pockets become deeper as more of the bone around the teeth is lost. Teeth — even unfilled teeth — may become loose, and need to be extracted

How can I prevent gum disease?

The good news is that you can help prevent gum disease by taking good care of your teeth every day and having regular dental checkups.
Here's how to keep your teeth and gums healthy:

Brush your teeth well twice a day.

This removes the film of bacteria from the teeth. Be sure to use a medium-bristled toothbrush that is in good condition.
Electric toothbrushes can be more effective than manual brushing, but need a slightly different technique. Ask your dentist or hygienist for a demonstration or advice.
Toothpastes and mouth rinses containing fluoride strengthen the teeth and help prevent decay, but often achieve little improvement in gum disease.

Clean between your teeth every day.

Cleaning between your teeth with floss or interdental cleaners removes bacteria and food particles from between the teeth, where a toothbrush can't reach.
Early gum disease can often be reversed by daily brushing and flossing.
If you use interdental cleaners, ask your dentist or hygienist how to use them properly, to avoid injuring your gums.

Visit your dentist or hygienist regularly.

It is important to have regular dental check-ups, and professional cleaning is essential to maintain your mouth if you have periodontal disease.
Once you have had one of the damaging forms of gum disease you are always going to be susceptible to getting it again so ongoing maintenance is always required to some degree..