How Does Gum Disease Develop?

Two Types of Gum Disease

Gum diseases, or periodontal diseases, are bad infections located in the gum around the tooth that can eventually lead to gum loss if left untreated. There are two basic types of gum disease: gingivitis, which is an infection in its early stages, and periodontitis, which is a more serious and involves the bone supporting the teeth. More than one tooth can be affected at the same time.

Gingivitis is usually mild, with the only symptoms being red, swollen gums that may occasionally bleed, especially when brushing. This is usually caused by poor oral hygiene and can be easily reversed with the resumption of good brushing and flossing habits.

Periodontitis usually arises from untreated gingivitis. Symptoms can include pain, although many people do not suffer from pain, even when the periodontitis is in advanced stages. Other symptoms are loose teeth, gaps between the teeth as the gums recede and infections in the gums that release pus.

How Gum Disease Begins

Plaque is the origin of gum disease. Plague is a sticky film that forms on your teeth. Brushing removes the plague, but if it is left too long on the teeth, the bacteria in plaque will irritate the gums. This initial irritation is gingivitis and is a warning sign that better dental hygiene needs to be practiced.

If the plaque is allowed to spread, it will seep below the gum line, and toxins produced by the bacteria will signal a response by one's body to attack the gum tissue. Tissue and even bone that supports the teeth will be destroyed. This causes the gums to separate from the teeth, allowing bacteria to creep into the spaces between the teeth and infect those spaces as well. If the disease continues to be left untreated, teeth may have to be removed.

Factors That Contribute to Gum Disease

Although poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum disease, there are other risk factors that may contribute to the spread of the disease as well.

Hormonal changes--such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause and monthly menstruation--make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop. Diseases that interfere with the body's immune system, such as cancer, can also make your gums and teeth more vulnerable to the bacteria in plaque. Some medications that cause dry mouth can also contribute to gum disease, as saliva helps protect the teeth and gums. Smoking damages the gums and makes it difficult for gum tissue to heal, and finally, a family history of dental disease can also put you more at risk.

Resources

• American Dental Association on Gum Disease