If you find blood on your toothbrush, even when brushing your teeth gently, you could be suffering from gingivitis. This is an inflammation of the gums caused by ‘bad’ bacteria that live under dental plaque.

It can be found between the gaps in the gums and the teeth and on the teeth themselves. Additional symptoms of gingivitis may include but are not exclusive to a bright red or shiny appearance of the gums, receding gums, and gums that are tender when touched.

Gingivitis is a periodontal (gum) tissue disease. This infection can destroy the tissue supporting the teeth if it is left unchecked. Unfortunately, if things get worse, a person’s teeth may become loose. After things have gone to far, teeth can come out. This is sad because we don’t currently have a way to replace living teeth.

There is mounting evidence from medical research that gum disease may make people more prone to heart disease, some cancers, stroke and other disease. The body was not made to respond to chronic inflammatory problems which is what gum disease can often mean to a person who doesn’t know they have it or is unable to rid themselves of it.

The dental plaque accumulates in the gaps between the teeth and gums and after a while forms calculus. This means apart from a normal brushing routine, you seek the professional assistance of a dental professional to remove the plaque and tartar by professional cleaning.

Professional dental cleaning is recommended traditionally, for every 6 months. However in the case of gum disease it may be recommended every 3 - 4 months. Sometimes, it may even be important to get a professional cleaning every two months.

If you display any of the signs of gum disease, you should take action, including contacting a periodontist for advice, diagnosis and treatment. Try to avoid alcohol mouthwash. Periodontists have more advanced training and experience with gum health and disease.