Overgrown or enlarged gum tissue is known as "gingival overgrowth." It is sometimes associated with anti-seizure medications such as phenytoin, immunosuppressant drugs such as those taken after organ transplantations and calcium channel blockers (including nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem, and amlopidine) that are taken by some heart patients.
Periodontal Diseases
With periodontal disease, a serious disease of the gums, there can be bleeding of the gums, redness, inflammation, separation of the gum from the teeth, infections and sometimes loosened teeth. Left untreated, gum disease can eventually lead to loss of bone and teeth.
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American Dental Association answeredMore studies are needed, but some researchers suspect that bacteria and inflammation linked to periodontitis (gum disease) play a role in some systemic diseases or conditions. Likewise, diseases such as diabetes, blood cell disorders, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) can lower the body's resistance to infection, making periodontal diseases more severe.
Several studies link chronic inflammation from periodontitis with the development of cardiovascular problems. Some evidence suggests that oral bacteria may be linked to heart disease, arterial blockages and stroke.
People with diabetes often have gum disease. In addition, there is evidence that people with diabetes are more likely to develop and have more severe periodontitis than those without diabetes. Some studies suggest that periodontitis can make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar. -
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American Dental Association answeredSee All 7 AnswersDuring the early stage of gum disease known as gingivitis, the gums become red and swollen and may bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort. Gingivitis can be reversed with treatment in the dental office and good oral care at home.
Untreated periodontal disease can lead to periodontitis, the destruction of the tissues that anchor teeth in the bone. As the disease progresses, pockets form and allow more plaque to collect below the gum line. Tooth roots are exposed and may become at risk for decay and are sensitive to cold and touch. In advanced periodontitis, the teeth lose more support as the disease continues to destroy the periodontal ligament and bone. Unless treated, the affected teeth frequently become loose and may fall out or require removal by a dentist. -
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Smoking has been linked to gum disease -- a leading cause of tooth loss. Watch as Dr. Maria Lopez Howell explains what a healthy lifestyle can mean for your mouth.
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American Dental Association answered
Gum recession can happen at any age. Dr. Maria Lopez Howell explains why treating gum recession early is the best way to keep you from losing your smile.
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American Dental Association answered
Periodontal disease is often painless and can go undetected. Listen as Dr. Maria Lopez Howell explains why regular dental checkups are important for maintaining a healthy smile.
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RealAge answeredRoot planing and scaling is also called deep cleaning. It is a treatment for gum disease (also called gingivitis, periodontitis, or periodontal disease), and is usually performed by a dentist, periodontist or a dental hygienist. If you need a deep cleaning to prevent further damage to your gums and teeth, your dental provider will use dental instruments to scrape tartar off of your teeth. To get rid of bacteria that cause gum disease, your provider will remove tartar from above and below your gum line. Some providers may use lasers to remove tartar, which can reduce swelling and bleeding that occur with regular planing and scaling methods. Medications may also be given to help treat gum disease, such as prescription antibiotic mouthwash or oral antibiotics. People with very deep pockets of tartar or advanced gum disease may need surgery. -
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Smoking may be responsible for almost 75% of periodontal (gum) diseases among adults. Tobacco products damage your gum tissue by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. An example of the effect is receding gums. A receding gum line exposes the tooth roots and increases your risk of developing a sensitivity to hot and cold, or tooth decay in these unprotected areas.
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YouBeauty answeredSee All 2 AnswersInflamed gums or excessive bleeding after brushing and flossing may be warning signs of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can become the more severe periodontitis (literally meaning “inflammation around the teeth”). Gum disease is typically caused by subpar brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a thick buildup of bacteria—to stick to teeth, which then inflames the surrounding gums. But what’s going on in your mouth says a lot about your health and beauty. Symptoms such as bleeding or swollen gums, bad breath or tenderness in the mouth can give insight to larger issues within the body.
Doctors link gum disease to internal body issues, such as thinning hair, heart problems, respiratory issues, diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
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Dr. Randall D. Stastny, DMD , Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, answeredHaving RA does not necessarily make one more prone to having gum disease. However, many of the medications that are used to treat RA suppress the immune system which in turn can make gum disease more likely if the patient does not take very good care of his/her teeth and gums.