Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that falls under the category of periodontal diseases, it is the mildest form of periodontal disease that occurs at the early stages of periodontal disease and is signified by the gums becoming red, swollen, and easily bleeding. Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth and is caused by plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, creating toxins that attack the gums, these gum diseases later infects the supporting tissues of the teeth causing teeth impairment and teeth lose.

Gum diseases are usually caused by many things some of which are unavoidable. Persons who suffer from diabetes or other systematic diseases like cancer and HIV have a high chance of developing gum infections due to the low immunity in the body; diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, which raises infection risk. Tobacco chewers and smokers are vulnerable to such type of diseases as tobacco presents an obstacle to the gum tissue’s ability to repair itself. Gum diseases also easily affect people with pregnancies or those experiencing hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation or menopause, these body changes make the gum tissues more sensitive. There is also a high chance of getting gum infections because of the use of certain medications like steroids, cancer drugs, anti-epilepsy drugs and oral contraceptives; such medications reduce the production of saliva which can affect gum tissue health. Poor dental hygiene also brings the risks of gum diseases.

Upon early detection, gingivitis can be reversed without undergoing surgical operations; gum disease often can be reversed by brushing teeth twice-daily and flossing, food particles that form in-between teeth creating plaque are the main reason for decay. It is also important to eat a well balanced diet with a limitation on snacks and sugary foods, basic food groups that are rich in fibre and natural nutrients help maintain the health of the teeth.

It is important to visit a dental clinic from time to time, this ensures that your teeth are healthy, regular checkups with your dentist for professional cleanings and exams are an essential element of effective dental hygiene to avoid gum disease and other irreversible conditions.

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