Periodontal Disease: Gingivitis

Almost 80% of American adults suffer from some form of periodontal (gum) disease. This is not surprising as many people admit to their dentist that they could do more to keep their mouth healthy. Gingivitis is the leading periodontal disease and therefore is worth mentioning.

The tissues around your teeth and bone, also known as the periodontium, become infected and show typical symptoms of gingivitis including irritation and swelling. Inflammation and soreness of the gum tissue is also characteristic of the disease. When brushing and flossing, your gums may bleed without you even knowing it due to the painless start of gingivitis. Your gums will also change from a healthy pink color to deep rouge.

Your body contains thousands of bacteria that help your body. Every once in a while they may get into the wrong area of the body or a new bacteria is introduced that is dangerous to your health. When entering the mouth, bacteria are in "bacteria heaven". The mouth is warm, moist and dark, perfect for bacterium to grown and replicate. Without a healthy immune system, this welcoming environment could lead to bacteria overtaking the body.

When the immune system is overrun, the bacteria can invade the spaces between the teeth, reaching to the soft gum tissues and bone. When the bacteria reach this point, they are no longer helpful to your body, and lead to periodontal disease. There are different levels of the disease and if it is not treated properly and relatively quickly, this simple fix may become a life-threatening, ulcer-forming gingivitis. Gingivitis can range from a mild form to severe periodontitis, a more advanced gum disease. Eventual loss of bone and tooth can also result.

Image provided by the Mayo Clinic online. Sources used for this post include the Mayo Clinic and eMedicineHealth.