What is Chronic Gingivitis?

Gum problems are a leading cause of adult tooth loss, and chronic gingivitis begins with plaque formation and accumulation, which gradually destroys the tissue surrounding and supporting teeth. While some bacteria are harmless, other bacteria can attack the teeth and gums, leading to gum disease, as a result of the accumulation of the colorless sticky film called plaque. If left unchecked, plaque accumulates and causes irritation of the gums, then bleeding, and eventually loss of teeth.

Gum disease (also called periodontitis or periodontal disease) is bacterial growth and production that gradually destroy the tissue surrounding and supporting the teeth. Gum disease begins with plaque, which is always forming on your teeth, without you even knowing it. When it accumulates to excessive levels, it hardens into a substance called tartar. Tartar is so tightly bound to teeth that it can only be removed by a professional cleaning.

The bacteria in plaque and tartar contain toxins that irritate the gums. The most common form of gum disease is gingivitis, which causes gums to become red, swollen or bleed easily. If the tartar below the gum line is not removed, the bacteria will attack the bone and fibers that hold the teeth to the bone, causing gums to pull away from the teeth.

These open areas, called pockets, fill with more bacteria and toxins. When the bone becomes infected, it is called periodontitis. These pockets will continue to become deeper, destroying the bone. In the final stages, the affected tooth will either fall out or need to be pulled. If left untreated, the disease will continue to progress causing further tooth loss.

No magic cream or salve is going to dislodge last night's popcorn kernels or plaque buildup that ultimately causes bleeding gums, and periodontitis. Get the ShowerBreeze or the QuickBreeze or even better, BOTH!! This ingenious oral irrigation device flushes out loosely attached plaque and food particles trapped between teeth and under the gum line, where brushing and flossing can't reach. Attach to any showerhead or faucet for permanent and easy accessibility.

Bleeding from the gums and/or bad breath is mainly due to inadequate plaque removal from the teeth at the gum line or decaying particles of food left behind from inadequate cleaning. This will lead to a condition called gingivitis (inflamed gums). If plaque is not removed through regular cleaning, it will harden into what is known as tartar. Ultimately, this will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as periodontitis. Which then, without treatment, leads to the loosening and eventual loss of teeth. Gum disease is a disease of neglect. Removing the source of the infection is primarily how it is treated.