Gum disease falls into two categories:

• Gingivitis – poor cleaning techniques and a lack of brushing can result in bacterial growth which causes swelling (inflammation) and bleeding of the gums.
• Periodontal disease – this occurs when gingivitis has been left untreated and all the tissues become affected.

As the condition gets worse, the bone of the jaw is lost and the teeth become loose and eventually fall out or have to be removed. If you think you may have gum disease, visit your dentist as soon as possible – more teeth are lost through periodontal disease than tooth decay but if caught early enough, your tooth can be saved.

Aside from not brushing your teeth properly or often enough, there are a number of factors which can contribute to gum disease:

• Smoking – a number of studies have found that smokers are more prone to gum disease because of the increased levels of tartar in their mouth. If you smoke, your gums are also more susceptible to disease and you are likely to suffer more bone loss.
• Stress – when our immune system is stressed, it’s difficult to fight off the bacteria that causes gum infections.
• Not going to the dentist – avoiding the dentist is a lifestyle choice that puts you at risk of contracting diseases of the mouth, teeth and gums.
  Diabetes – diabetics are more prone to gum disease compared to those who don’t have it.

• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Bleeding when you brush, floss or even eat
• Your gums start to recede or pull away from the teeth (your teeth may look longer than they used to)
• Your teeth become loose
• Pus between your gums and teeth
• Sores in your mouth
• Bad breath
• You have noticed a change in the way your teeth fit together when you bite