Poor dental hygiene does not only affect the teeth but also the gums. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two types of gum diseases. Periodontitis is the aggravated form of gingivitis. In today’s post, we will look at the symptoms and effects of these two diseases.

Symptoms of gum diseases

Gingivitis

• The gums appear swollen and red.

• The gums feel softer than normal.
• The gums bleed without much pressure.
• The gums frequently bleed during brushing.
• The breath smells bad.
• The gums change their color from pink to red.
• The gums sag and appear loose, giving more space to the teeth.

Periodontitis

• The gums appear swollen.

• The gums become noticeably red.
• The gums become soft.
• The teeth loosen.
• The gums sag, giving more space to the teeth.
• There is pus between the teeth and the gums.
• The gap between teeth starts widening.
• The breath smells bad.
• There is a sour taste in the mouth.

Effects of gum diseases

Gum diseases not only affect your oral health but may also harm your overall health. People with gum diseases are more likely to be affected by the following:

• Heart disease

• Heart stroke
• Kidney cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Preterm birth

People with diabetes or the ones who smoke need to pay more attention to oral care. Women are more susceptible to gum diseases because of the several hormonal changes they go through in their lives.

The best way to prevent the gum disease is to follow a good dental care routine. Visit your dentist every six months to make sure that you have no dental or oral problems.

Happy smiling!

Tags: effects, gum diseases, symptoms