Gums play a crucial role in maintaining your overall oral health and ensuring a healthy teeth condition. Gum diseases can affect oral health causing serious oral issues. That is why it is important to stay aware of your gum condition. 

Gum diseases or periodontal diseases are the types of infection or inflammation that cause harm to the tissues surrounding your teeth. The primary cause of this type of infection is poor oral hygiene practices. However, some people are more prone to gum diseases than others even with regular maintenance of hygiene. Treatments are available depending on the type and severity of your gum disease. 

Types of Gum Diseases 

• Gingivitis: The Initial Stage: In case of gum infection and diseases, Gingivitis is the most common stage. This type of infection causes swelling and inflammation in the gums due to bacteria and the buildup of plaque. Typical signs of Gingivitis include discomfort, redness, and bleeding while brushing or flossing. However, gingivitis is reversible with taking proper oral hygiene measures and regular dental cleanings.
• Periodontitis: The Progressive Stage: Gingivitis can advance to the next stage, Periodontitis, if it is not treated properly. This is a more serious gum disease that harms not both the gums and the connective tissue that supports the teeth. Common symptoms of Periodontitis include receding gums, persistent bad breath, and loss of teeth. In more serious cases, pockets form between the gums and teeth. Early intervention by a dental professional is necessary to prevent further damage.
• Aggressive Periodontitis: A Fast-Developing Condition: As the name suggests Aggressive Periodontitis is a severe and fast-developing form of gum disease. This condition is often common in younger individuals and sometimes linking it to genetic factors. This condition leads to tissue damage and bone loss. If left untreated it will potentially result in tooth loss. Early intervention from a professional dentist is essential to stop further development and manage this aggressive disease.  
• Chronic Periodontitis: A Slow but Persistent State: Chronic periodontitis is another common type of gum disease. In this case, the infection grows slowly over time and causes gradual destruction of supporting bones and gum tissues. This stage is more common in adults leading to tooth loss if not properly taken care of. A personalized treatment plan and regular dental check-ups are essential to control chronic periodontitis.
• Necrotizing Periodontal Disease: A Rare and Severe Condition: Even though rare, Necrotizing Periodontal disease is an extremely severe form of gum infection that mainly affects individuals with malnutrition and weak immune systems. This condition results in rapid tissue breakdown, intense inflammation, and painful ulcers. Immediate treatment by a professional oral surgeon is crucial to prevent further health complications.
• Gum Abscess: Infection of Gum Tissues: A gum abscess is an infection within the gum tissues that forms due to bacterial infection. This often results in swelling, pain, and the formation of a pus-filled pocket. Addressing the root cause is necessary along with removing the infection to treat this condition properly. Treatment from a professional dental surgeon can completely heal this condition. 
• Gum Recession: The Exposure of Tooth Roots: Gum recession is the condition where the gum tissue pulls back from around the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. This condition greatly affects your smile and appearance and also increases the risk of tooth decay. There are several reasons behind gum recession including hormonal changes, genetic factors, and gum disease. Aggressive brushing can also be a cause of this type of serious condition. 

Causes of Gum Disease 

• Poor Oral Hygiene: The primary cause of any type of gum disease is the accumulation of plaque on the teeth and gums. If it isn't removed properly through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden and create serious gum problems. 
• Lack of Nutrition: A diet void of essential nutrients, especially vitamin C, can make the gums more vulnerable to infections. Additionally, poor nutrition can cause other related health conditions increasing the risk of gum disease.
• Chewing Tobacco or Smoking: Tobacco use is one of the major reasons for gum disease. Smoking reduces immune function and makes the healing process slow. Smokers are also more prone to developing severe gum diseases. 
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menopause, and pregnancy, can make gums more sensitive and prone to gum infections. Pregnancy can lead to a condition named “pregnancy gingivitis”, which causes inflammation making gums bleed easily.

Conclusion