Inflammation of the gums. When it affects the fixation of the tooth to the bone, it is called periodontitis.
Its primary cause of both is the accumulation of dental plaque (bacteria and residue) which forms tartar. Other factors are: poor dental hygiene, pregnancy, diabetes, certain medicines, etc.
The inflammation gives them a bright red colour and causes them to be sensitive to cold and prone to bleeding. Periodontitis produces bad breath and weak teeth that may fall out due to destruction of tissue.
Diagnosis is made clinically by questioning, examination of the mouth and an X-ray is used to assess bone loss.
Treatment has the objective to reduce inflammation, improve oral hygiene are treat the infection. Rinsing with warm water and salt can help reduce gum inflammation.
- Rebecca S Wilder, Antonio J Moretti. Gingivitis and periodontitis in adults: Classification and dental treatment. UpToDate. Apr 25, 2016.
- Anthony W Chow. Complications, diagnosis, and treatment of odontogenic infections. UpToDate. Oct 06, 2016.
- Laudenbach JM, Simon Z. Common dental and periodontal diseases: evaluation and management. Med Clin North Am 2014; 98:1239.
- Yaacob M, Worthington HV, Deacon SA, et al. Powered versus manual toothbrushing for oral health. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; :CD002281.
