Gingivitis
- What it is
90% of adult Singaporeans have
some form of gum disease. This
may range from the mildest
(gingivitis) to the most severe
(periodontitis). Gum disease can
affect every tooth (generalised)
or just some teeth in the mouth
(localised).
Gingivitis
The early stage of gum disease is
gingivitis – an inflammation of the
gums immediately surrounding the
teeth. The first symptom of gingivitis is
bleeding on brushing. In some cases,
bad breath is noted. Pain is usually not
a presenting symptom. Gum disease is
called the ‘silent’ enemy because it may
present with no symptoms at all. By
the time symptoms arise, the disease
may have advanced considerably.
Gingivitis is reversible with proper oral
hygiene and simple treatment like
scaling and polishing.
Periodontitis
Unattended gingivitis over a long time,
progresses to periodontitis. This is
where the disease attacks the deeper
parts of the supporting structures of
the tooth such as the surrounding
bone and attachments. In addition to
the symptoms of gingivitis, patients
may complain of loose teeth, changes
in tooth position, gum boils, longer
looking teeth, or dull ache in the gums
and teeth. Periodontitis is irreversible
with just brushing alone and needs
dental intervention.
