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Thursday: 29 January 2026
  • 14 October 2025
  • 10:30
Key Signs of Gum Inflammation

Khaberni - Gum inflammation is one of the most common inflammatory diseases of the mouth, estimated to affect between 50% and 100% of adults and children at some stage in their lives.

Fortunately, gum inflammation can be treated if detected in time. However, if left untreated, it can lead to a more serious disease that may result in the loss of your teeth.

According to "Medical Express", to identify the main signs of this inflammation check the color of your gums, do they appear red and bleed a lot when brushed but do not cause you pain?

If so, you may be suffering from gum inflammation.

Essentially, inflammation is an immune response of the body to the microbes present in the sticky biofilms or plaque on the tooth surface.
Redness of the gums

You may notice slight redness in the gums, near where the teeth meet, or in the gum area between the teeth. You might also notice slight to moderate swelling of the gums, or your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth or use dental floss.

This can affect the gums near one or more teeth. Sometimes, it may lead to bad breath.

According to experts, gum inflammation generally develops over time. You will notice its common form if you do not clean your teeth well (and do not remove plaque) for a few days. Gum inflammation is not painful initially.

But if untreated, it may lead to a more severe form of the disease called periodontitis.

This occurs when a person also loses the bone that anchors the teeth in place. If periodontitis is left untreated, the teeth may become loose and might fall out.
How does the infection occur?

There are several factors that can increase the likelihood and severity of gum inflammation, in addition to poor oral hygiene. For example, changes in sex hormones during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and the use of oral contraceptives can increase the severity of gum inflammation.

This is due to increased blood flow or changes in the microbial composition of the plaque.

Other conditions that may exacerbate gum inflammation include diabetes, leukemia, dry mouth, and certain medications.

Infectious diseases can also be behind gum inflammation.

This includes bacterial infections (such as streptococcal disease, syphilis, and tuberculosis), viral infections (such as herpes, human papillomavirus, and hand, foot, and mouth disease), and fungal infections (candidiasis).

 

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