Gum Disease Causing More Than Just Swollen Gums

The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis and it occurs when plaque has built up on the surface of teeth and below the gumline causing tender, bleeding and swollen gums. Bleeding of the gums may be experienced when brushing and flossing teeth even with light pressure. To prevent dental problems such as gingivitis, dental hygiene program must be observed.

The serious stage of gum disease is called periodontitis, it occurs when gingivitis has been left without treatment or treatment has been delayed and has progressed to the next level.

Gum disease will not only cause swollen gums, it will eventually cause gums to pull away from teeth, creating periodontal pockets that traps food debris and may become infected. Gradually, the teeth will start to become loose and tooth loss may result.

See your dentist as soon as possible when you suspect you have gum disease. Leaving it will only make gum condition worse. Following a daily home dental hygiene and regular dental visits is the key to preventing gum disease.