Periodontal disease is primarily caused by plaque. However, various factors can trigger periodontitis as well. Among them are:

• During pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, the hormonal changes can irritate the gums, causing gingivitis.
• Your gum health may also be affected by illnesses. Diseases that interfere with the immune system, such as cancer and HIV, can do so. Diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, which increases the risk of infections, including periodontal disease and cavities.
• Many medications can damage the health of teeth and gums because they limit saliva flow, which protects teeth and gums. Some prescription medications, such as the anticonvulsant medication Dilantin and the angina medications Procardia and Adalat, may cause abnormal gum tissue growth.
• Tobacco use can damage gum tissue and make it harder to heal itself.
• Gingivitis is more likely to develop in people who have poor oral hygiene habits, like not brushing or flossing regularly.
• Gum disease can run in families. Gingivitis may be passed down through family members.

A condition called gingivitis (gum inflammation) often precedes periodontitis (gum disease). However, some gingivitis does not progress to periodontitis.

Gingivitis:
Gingivitis affects most people at some point in their lives, and its minor symptoms are easy to overlook. However, it might develop into more severe issues for your mouth without treatment. The good news is that you can avoid or even cure gingivitis by brushing your teeth, flossing, and going to the dentist
regularly.

Bacteria in plaque accumulate early in the development of gingivitis, causing the gums to inflame and bleed easily during tooth cleaning. While the gums may be irritated, the teeth are still firmly implanted in their sockets. At this point, there has been no bone or other tissue damage.

When you neglect to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash, there will be plaque buildup on your teeth. The gunk produces acids that destroy the outer layer of your teeth, known as enamel. After 72 hours, tartar forms and makes it difficult to clean your teeth and gums properly. This accumulation causes irritation and inflammation of your gums over time, leading to gingivitis.

Periodontitis:
An individual with periodontitis will have pockets formed when the gums and bones pull away from the teeth. When food particles get trapped, these small spaces between teeth and gums can become infected. Plaque spreads below the gum line, causing the body’s immune system to fight the bacteria.

By producing toxins or poisons, bacteria in plaque and the body’s defence mechanisms begin to break down the bone and connective tissues that hold teeth in place. A deeper pocket is formed as the disease progresses, and more gum tissue and bone are damaged. Ultimately, teeth no longer stay in place, become loose, and start falling out. Adults are most likely to lose their teeth to gum disease.

Even late in its progression, gum disease may grow painlessly and produce few apparent symptoms. Despite its often subtle symptoms, periodontal disease does not come without warning signs. Here are a few symptoms that may indicate the disease.

• • Gums that bleed while brushing and after brushing
  • Gums that are red and swollen.
  • An unpleasant taste in the mouth or persistent bad breath.
  • Gum recession
  • Deep pockets between teeth and gums.
  • A loose or shifting tooth
  • Changes in the fit of the teeth or partial dentures when biting down

Some people, however, may only suffer from gum disease in their molars. The progression of gum disease can only be detected and determined by a dentist or periodontist.

Proper oral hygiene can reduce the risk of gum disease. Plaque build-up and gum disease can be prevented by following a consistent oral hygiene routine. Follow these steps to maintain good oral health:

• Brush your teeth twice a day or after each meal or snack, for at least two minutes.
• A soft toothbrush should be used, and it should be replaced every three to four months.
• Daily flossing is recommended.
• Reduce plaque between your teeth by gargling with an antibacterial mouthwash.
• Consume a healthy, balanced diet.
• Avoid smoking.
• Have a professional cleaning performed by your dentist every six months.