Gum Disease Treatment
Gum Disease, also referred to as Periodontal Disease, is an infection affecting the tissues that support your teeth. It usually develops due to inadequate dental care, allowing plaque—a sugary film of bacteria—to accumulate on the teeth and solidify.
At its initial phase, gum disease is known as gingivitis, during which the gums may turn red, swell, and bleed more easily.
If not addressed, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more serious version of gum disease. In this stage, the gums may recede from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected.
As the body’s defense mechanisms battle the bacteria, the bone and connective tissue that secure teeth in place may deteriorate, potentially resulting in tooth loss.
Gum Disease Indicators:
Gums that are red and swollen: Gums that are healthy are typically pink and solid. Red, inflamed gums might indicate gingivitis.
Gums that bleed easily: Gums that bleed when you brush or floss.
Persistent foul breath: Ongoing unpleasant breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Progressive Phase (Periodontitis)
Erosion of gum line: Gums moving away from the teeth, giving the teeth a longer look.
Creation of deep spaces: Large spaces between the teeth and gums, suitable for bacteria growth.
Teeth becoming unstable: Teeth might feel unstable or move around.
Pus between teeth and gums: The existence of pus or infection between the teeth and gums.
Modifications in chewing pattern: Alterations in the alignment of teeth when you bite.
Gum Disease Treatment
Common Signs Gum Disease
Aching during eating: Feeling of discomfort or pain when biting or chewing.
Teeth that are sensitive: Enhanced sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures because of exposed tooth roots.
Causes of Gum Disease:
Plaque Accumulation: The leading cause of gum disease is the buildup of plaque, a slimy layer of bacteria that adheres to teeth. If not removed by consistent brushing and flossing, plaque can solidify into tartar, which requires a dental professional to eliminate.
Lack of Oral Care: Not brushing and flossing properly can lead to the accumulation of plaque and tartar, raising the chances of developing gum disease.
Tobacco Use: Using tobacco significantly increases the risk of gum disease. Individuals who smoke are more prone to developing periodontal disease and face greater challenges in recovering from it.
Hormonal Shifts: Variations in hormone levels, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause, can make gums more sensitive and more vulnerable to gum disease.
Genetic Predisposition: Some people are genetically inclined to gum disease, no matter how diligently they maintain their oral health.
Medical Conditions and Medications: Certain medical conditions, like diabetes, cancer, and HIV, can affect gum health. Medications that reduce the production of saliva can also heighten the risk, as saliva offers a protective barrier for the gums.
Inadequate Diet: A poor diet, particularly a deficiency in vitamin C, can play a role in the development of gum disease.
Stress: Elevated stress levels can weaken the immune system, making it more difficult for the body to combat infections, including gum disease.
Incorrectly Fitting Dental Devices: Dentures, bridges, or other dental devices that do not fit properly can cause irritation and facilitate the accumulation of plaque.
Teeth Grinding or Clenching: These behaviors exert additional pressure on the supporting structures of teeth, hastening their deterioration.
Gum Disease Treatment
Risks and Complications of Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, carries significant dangers and complications if not addressed. It starts off as gingivitis, marked by gums that are red, swollen, and bleed easily.
If not managed, it can escalate into more serious conditions. As the disease worsens, it can lead to periodontitis, during which the gums detach from the teeth, creating pockets that become infected.
This situation can lead to the loss of bone and tissues, eventually resulting in the loss of teeth.
Moreover, gum disease has been associated with other health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and lung infections, because of the body’s inflammatory reaction and the bacteria that get into the blood.
Regular visits to the dentist and proper oral care are essential in reducing these dangers and preserving general health.
Gum Disease Treatment
Treatment Options for Gum Disease
Gum disease, also referred to as periodontal disease, comes with a range of treatment approaches, which differ based on how severe the condition is.
At its initial phase, called gingivitis, the usual course of action involves getting your teeth professionally cleaned and adopting better oral care habits, like deep brushing and flossing.
Should the disease advance to periodontitis, more aggressive treatments might be needed. A common deep-cleaning method, known as scaling and root planing, is often used to eliminate plaque and tartar from areas below the gum line.
In cases where the disease is more severe, surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts might be essential for repairing damaged areas.
Moreover, treatments that fight bacteria, such as mouth rinses and targeted antibiotics, can aid in managing the infection.
It’s also important to have regular dental visits and continue with periodontal care to effectively manage gum disease and avoid it coming back.
