Gum Disease (Gingivitis)

Gum disease (gingivitis) affects the majority of all adults in the UK and it is the primary cause of tooth loss after the age of 35.

The medical name for your gums is the gingiva and when the gums become inflamed, the condition is called gingivitis, commonly known as gum disease.  When identified immediately, treatment of gingivitis is simple and reversible.

Gum disease (gingivitis) is usually caused by long-term effects of dental plaque deposits.  Impacted food can also be responsible and injury to the gums from over-vigorous toothbrushing or misuse of toothpicks can cause inflammation as well. 

A lack of vitamin C can also cause this condition, known as scurvy and famous as the curse of sailors when there was a lack of fruit and vegetables aboard: these days this is very rare.  The risk of gum disease (gingivitis) will also increase in poorly controlled diabetes,
pregnancy, the elderly and in conjunction with some forms of medication.

Gingivitis is a reversible condition since the bone and tissue which maintain the teeth are not affected.  Treatment and prevention are based on good oral care routine including brushing, flossing and rising with an antiseptic mouthwash.

If left unchecked for too long it can develop into periodontitis.