Gum Disease

Gingivitis is the official medical term for early gum disease or periodontal disease. In general, gum disease can be caused by long-term exposure to plaque. The sticky, colourless film on teeth that forms after eating or sleeping is plaque.

Gum disease originates in the gums, where infections form from harmful bacteria and other materials left behind from food.
Early warning signs can include: chronic bad breath, tender or painful swollen gums and minor bleeding after brushing or flossing. However, gingivitis can often go unnoticed. The infections will eventually cause the gums to separate from the teeth, creating even greater opportunities for infection and decay.

Gingivitis can cause major tooth loss in adults however, it is avoidable. If it is untreated, more serious problems will occur such as abscesses, bone loss or periodontitis can occur. Periodontitis is treated in a number of ways. One method is called root planing that involves cleaning and scraping below the gum line to smooth the roots. If effective, the procedure helps the gums to reattach themselves to the tooth structure.

Believe it or not, even pregnancy can cause a form of gingivitis. This has been linked to the hormonal changes a woman's body undergoes that promotes plaque production.