Hi.. Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns.. As per your complain it seems that the white scab like deposits over the gums along with gum inflammation and soreness seems to be calcified deposits over the gums known as Calculus and it leads to infection due to bacterial accumulation.. The chipping of gums is due to loss of gum attachments and occurs due to infection leading to gum recession and the space is covered with calculus.. It will not heal simply with saline rinses, therefore you need to consult an Oral Physician and get evaluated and a thorough clinical evaluation and x rays [if needed] can help in diagnosis and treatment can be done accordingly.. You can be advised a thorough scaling of the teeth followed by a course of antibiotics and painkillers.. Topical application of gum paint and antiseptic mouthwash gargles will relieve.. You should also be advised a proper brushing technique so that once the teeth are cleaned you can maintain clean teeth and avoid accumulation of the plague and calculus.. You should also chew more of raw fruits and vegetables like carrots etc as they clean the teeth by frictional action.. Hope this information helps.. Thanks and regards. Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.