GUMS are the supporting pillars of teeth. Gum diseases like GINGIVITIS and PERIODONTITIS affect the oral health negatively leading to bleeding gums, food lodgement, swollen gums, pus discharge, inability to chew, loosening of teeth, migration of teeth and ultimately loss of teeth. Gum disease is caused due to specific bacteria present in dental plaque and tartar due to improper teeth cleaning habits. Gum disease could also be familial /hereditary transmitted from one generation to next in certain families. Gum enlargement could also happen due to certain medications. If you suffer from frequent bleeding gums, food lodgement, bad breath or difficulty in chewing or dull pain in the gums, it may be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is usually silent, slowly progressing and does not cause much pain. A regular dental check up and regular teeth cleaning and polishing helps prevent development of gum disease.