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Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by the build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If not removed regularly through proper oral hygiene, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist.
In the early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, the gums may become swollen, red, and bleed easily, especially when brushing or flossing. Bad breath and a metallic taste in the mouth can also be symptoms. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that affects the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, bone, and ligaments.
Periodontitis can cause the gums to recede, creating pockets between the teeth and gums that can become infected. The bone in the jaw may also be damaged, leading to loose or shifting teeth. In advanced cases, teeth may need to be extracted. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups to prevent and/or treat gum disease.
Preventing Gum Disease
Preventing and treating gum disease is essential to maintaining good oral health. The key to preventing gum disease is maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth
- Using an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen breath
- Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Quitting smoking or using tobacco products
- Scheduling regular dental check-ups, at least twice a year
In the early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, a thorough cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove plaque and tartar and help to reverse the condition. In more advanced cases, further medical and dental treatment, such as scaling and root planing, may be necessary. Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. It also smooths the root surfaces to make it more difficult for plaque to reattach.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat severe gum disease. This can include procedures such as flap surgery, bone or tissue grafts, and guided tissue regeneration. These procedures are usually performed by a specialist in gum problems (periodontist) It’s important to follow the dentist’s advice and schedule regular check-ups to prevent and treat gum disease.
FAQs About Gum Disease:
Gingivitis is typically diagnosed during a routine dental exam. Your dentist or dental hygienist will use a small ruler to measure the depth of any pockets around your teeth. Pockets greater than 3 millimeters can indicate inflammation and the presence of gingivitis. In addition, your dentist may also order X-rays to check for bone loss, which can occur as a result of gingivitis. If gingivitis is suspected, your dentist may also take a sample of your plaque for laboratory analysis to confirm the diagnosis.
Symptoms of gingivitis and periodontitis, both forms of gum disease, can include:
- Red, swollen or tender gums
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
- Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
- Loose teeth
- A change in the way your teeth fit together when biting
- Pus between the teeth and gums
- Pain while chewing
- Sensitivity in the teeth
- Partial dentures that no longer fit properly
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
It is important to note that many people with gingivitis may not experience any symptoms, that’s why regular dental check-ups are important. If you have any of these symptoms or are concerned about your oral health, it’s important to speak with a dentist or visit dental clinic near by as soon as possible to prevent the progression of the disease.
The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When teeth are not brushed and flossed properly and regularly, plaque can build up on the teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Other causes of gum disease include: -Smoking or using tobacco products -Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, HIV, or leukemia -Certain medications that reduce the flow of saliva, which can make the mouth dry -Genetics or family history of gum disease -Hormonal changes in women can cause increased sensitivity in the gums -Poor nutrition and lack of vitamin C -Grinding or clenching teeth -Ill-fitting dental work or orthodontic appliances It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, visit your dentist regularly and address any underlying health conditions to reduce the risk of developing gum disease.
Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that is caused by the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. It occurs when the plaque and tartar that build up on the teeth and gums are not removed through regular oral hygiene practices.Periodontitis is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage. However, with early diagnosis and proper oral hygiene, it is possible to stop the progression of the disease and preserve the integrity of the teeth and gums. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning, scaling and root planing, medication and sometimes surgery can be required to effectively treat periodontitis.
Aftercare of Gum Disease treatment:
After treatment, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent the disease from recurring. This includes brushing and flossing regularly, as well as regular dental check-ups and cleanings. In addition, quitting smoking and controlling diabetes can also help to prevent a recurrence of gum disease.
Some of the immediate side effects after gum disease treatment include bleeding and soreness in the gums. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to alleviate these symptoms. It’s also common for your teeth to feel sensitive after treatment, this usually goes away after a few days.
Long-term, patients can expect their gums to become healthier, and their teeth to become more firmly anchored in place. However, it’s important to follow through with the dentist’s recommended follow-up care, which often includes regular cleanings and checkups to ensure that the gum disease does not reoccur.
In conclusion, gum disease is a serious infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. With proper treatment and ongoing maintenance, the progression of the disease can be halted and even reversed. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow through with recommended follow-up care to prevent recurrence of the disease.