Home > Conditions / Ailments > Oral / Mouth Problem / Gingivitis > DESCRIPTION Gingivitis, inflamtion of the gums, is condsidered to be an early stage of periodontal disease caused by sticky deposits of bacteria, mucus, and food particles called plaque. Researchers believe plaque accumulation causes the gum to become infected and swollen, and to bleed. As the gum swells it forms a pocket between the teeth, causing a trap for more plaque. The gum becomes red soft and shiny. Other possible causes of gingivitis include breathing through the mouth, badly fitting fillings which irritate surrounding gum tissue, and a dietconsiting of too many soft foods that rob the teeth and gums of much needed exercise., If left untreated gingivitis can lead to a condition called pyorrhea (periodontis). This is an advanced stage of periodontal disease often related to a deficiency of vitamin C, bio-flavinoids, calcium, folic acid, or niacin. It occurs when bacteria get between the gum and teeth, causing infection. Pyorrhea causes halitosis, with painful and bleeding gums. This slowly eats away the bone in the jaw. Abscesses are common., Causes of pyorrhea include poor nutriton, improper brushing, wrong foods, sugar, chronic illness, glandular disorders, blood disease, smoking, drugs, and excessive alcohol. See also Halitosis. SUGGESTED PRODUCTS: For More Info On Products Click On Item Descriptions.