Swollen Gums: If Left Untreated, A Serious Problem

The root of most problems surrounding bleeding gums and gum disease is plaque. Plaque is a sticky film-like bacteria that covers your teeth and your gums. This bacteria is formed in your mouth after eating and creates acids that attack your mouth, leading to all kinds of dental problems including swollen gums, gum disease, cavities and bad breath. Plaque is so common because it hides between your teeth, in the area known in dentistry as the sulcus. One of the diseases caused by plaque that can result in bleeding gums is gingivitis. Gingivitis attacks the gums as well as the periodontal ligaments and the tooth sockets. The gums will bleed, become swollen and painful. Left untreated, it can lead to the more serious form of gum disease: periodontitis. Periodontitis is a long term infection that many sufferers may have for some years before realizing it themselves and it is estimated that one-third of the population suffers from this disease.