Gum infection causes and symptoms

Gums also known as gingivae are fibrous firm tissue that connect to the bone of the jaw.



They are said to be healthy when they are at least 1 mm thick enriched with a good supply of blood. A sticky film is continuously formed on the teeth known as dental plaque. This invisible plaque produces bacteria which is more organized and produces more harmful toxins that irritate the gum tissue.



If this plaque is not cleaned on daily basis then it becomes a breeding ground for the bacteria and germs leading to tartar which is difficult to clean with normal brushing. These excess bacteria growth along with the toxins can cause a gum infection which can cause inflammation of the gums known as gingivitis. Vincent’s disease or acute ulcerative gingivitis is caused due to bacterial infection of the gums.



In this there is acute destructive inflammation of the gums which is extremely painful as it causes painful ulcers on the gums.

Normal gums have a healthy pink color, but infected gums are inflamed, swollen and red in color. A very common symptom of acute gum infection is bleeding gums, especially while brushing. If the infection is not treated at this stage then it can lead to a serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. When adequate oral hygiene is not maintained then plaque deposition leads to tartar or calculus formation. The bacteria present in these produces toxins and waste products which mainly have volatile sulphur compounds. These waste products and toxins can destroy the gums and bones surrounding the teeth. The inner layer of gums moves away from the teeth forming a pocket between the teeth and gums. In this way the gums infection spread when the plaque spreads and the debris is settled in the pockets.



A person with gum infection may also experience symptoms like halitosis or bad breath due to presence of volatile sulphur compounds in the mouth.

A lingering and untreated gum infection can cause gum abscess where the bacteria present in the periodontal pockets alter with time and are replaced with more destructive species. These bacteria produce toxins, and the byproducts of this can lead to further bone loss. If there is pus formation or pus is trapped in the gum line then the abscess can be worst and the infection can spread towards neck or ears below the lower jaw.

It is very important to maintain adequate oral hygiene to avoid any gum infection or disease. If brushing and flossing is not helpful to remove the excess plaque, seek help of a specialist.