When we talk about gum disease, we’re referring to periodontal disease, a condition that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It’s caused by the buildup of bacterial plaque on teeth and gums, leading to inflammation and deterioration of the periodontal tissues.
In the early stages, it presents as gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that are prone to bleeding. If not treated in time, the disease can progress to periodontitis, where there is destruction of the bone and connective tissue, ultimately leading to tooth loss.
Proper dental care, including good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist, is essential for preventing and treating gum disease. Let’s delve into the symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection that affects the tissues that hold the teeth in place. It typically originates from poor dental hygiene, including inadequate brushing technique, improper flossing, and lack of professional dental cleanings.
As a result, bacterial plaque accumulates and hardens, forming a sticky layer composed of bacteria. In advanced stages, gum disease can cause symptoms such as bleeding and pain in the gums, discomfort while chewing, and even tooth loss.
What causes gum disease?
The accumulation and hardening of bacterial plaque, a transparent and sticky substance, significantly impact oral health by:
- Bacteria in the plaque feed on the sugars present in the food we eat and produce toxins that irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and bleed easily during brushing
- Over time, the plaque can harden and turn into tartar, further irritating the gums and leading to dental deterioration
- Without deep and professional cleaning, the problem can lead to gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis. Over time, this deep infection causes tissue and bone loss, as well as overburdening the immune system, leading to other health issues.
Symptoms of gum disease
While healthy gums are pink and firm, diseased gums have distinct signs. Gingivitis produces:
- Redness, swelling, and sensitivity in the gums
- Bleeding during brushing or flossing.
Gingivitis is usually painless and can go unnoticed, allowing it to progress to periodontitis, characterized by symptoms such as:
- Separation between the gums and teeth (gum recession)
- Bad breath
- Dental abscess
- Loose teeth
- Difficulty biting.
If you suspect you have gum disease, seek immediate dental attention. Postponing a visit to the dentist and receiving early treatment can help prevent the worsening of the condition and its potential complications.
Risk factors
While gingivitis is common, certain factors can increase the risk of developing it:
- Poor oral care habits
- Smoking
- Advanced age
- Dry mouth
- Poor nutrition
- Vitamin C deficiency
- Dental crowding
- Dental malpractice
- Substance abuse
- Hormonal changes
- Viral or fungal infections
- Complications
Chronic gum inflammation has been linked to various systemic diseases, such as respiratory disorders, diabetes, coronary artery disease, strokes, and rheumatoid arthritis. Preliminary studies suggest that the bacteria causing periodontitis could enter the bloodstream through gum tissue, potentially affecting organs like the heart, lungs, and other parts of the body. However, further research is needed to confirm and better understand this association.
Trench mouth, also known as necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, is a severe form of gingivitis characterized by the presence of ulcers, bleeding, and pain in the gums. Although uncommon in developed countries nowadays, it is more frequently observed in developing nations facing poor living conditions and inadequate nutrition.
Treatment
Initiating early treatment is crucial to address gum disease. This will help prevent permanent damage to the gums, control infections, and avoid early tooth loss.
- For gingivitis, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to combat the infection. These can be applied directly to the gums, taken as pills or capsules, or used as a mouthwash. Additionally, they may recommend an antibacterial toothpaste to reduce plaque and gingivitis when used regularly.
- For periodontitis, the dentist or dental hygienist may perform a cleaning called root planing and scaling. This procedure removes accumulated plaque and tartar both above and below the gumline.
In more severe cases, if these treatments don’t control the infection or if there is significant damage to the gums or teeth, surgery may be necessary. Some surgical options include:
- Gingivectomy: To remove pockets between the teeth and gums where plaque accumulates, a flap procedure to clean the roots of a tooth and repair bone damage, or extraction of loose or severely damaged teeth.
After surgery, antibiotics or other medications may be required to facilitate healing and prevent infections. Following treatment, as mentioned earlier, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup. Your dentist may prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash as part of the post-treatment care.
Prevention
- Good oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day keeps your mouth free of particles and bacteria
- Regular dental check-ups: It’s important to visit the dentist every 6 to 12 months for professional cleanings. Getting dental X-rays once a year, on the other hand, helps identify dental diseases early
- Healthy habits: A nutritious diet plays a key role in maintaining gum health.
For more information, contact us. We’re Prodent MX, and we understand the importance of having healthy gums for excellent oral health. Our team of highly trained professionals specializing in gum diseases is committed to providing you with the best personalized care and attention.
0 Comments