Gum disease is one of the leading causes of teeth loss in adults. Even though the cleanliness of teeth is prioritized by most people, the health of gums is often overlooked. The soft skin that covers the teeth and the bones of our mouth forms a tight seal.
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of teeth loss in adults. Even though the cleanliness of teeth is prioritized by most people, the health of gums is often overlooked. Gums are designed to provide protection to the teeth by preventing the development of diseases in the mouth. If neglected, poor gum health can cause physical harm.
The soft skin that covers the teeth and the bones of our mouth forms a tight seal. The gum not only keeps the teeth in place but also acts as a barrier against bacteria that can develop due to left-over food particles. Bacteria can produce harmful toxins that might lead to inflammation in the gum tissue.
There are a few markers that help identify healthy gums-
Healthy gums are usually coral pink in color, even though they can be a little darker in people with darker skin. Healthy gums are also smooth and curved and fit tightly around each tooth. They do not move since they are firm and have no reaction to brushing.
CausesThere are many factors that might lead to gum disease apart from poor oral hygiene.-
There is a surge in the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone during puberty in a woman. This imbalance might lead to an increase in blood flow which in turn changes the way gum tissue reacts to irritants. This might cause gum disease.
Along with these, other factors that might cause gum disease are aging, HIV infection, substance abuse, inadequate nutrition, and genetic predisposition, among others.
One has to be extremely careful with their oral hygiene if one might be subjected to any of these factors.
Gum diseases can be caught when they are in their earliest stages which can be easily cured. If left untreated, however, they can lead to serious problems including the complete loss of teeth, heart diseases, deterioration of jawbone, etc. Knowing about the different stages of gum disease can prove to be a lot of help. Identifying symptoms early can make a ton of difference. It would help in seeking treatment early, reversing any ill effects of the problem. There are a few different types of gum diseases.
Types of Gum Disease Gingivitis -The first stage and the mildest form of gum disease are known as Gingivitis. If caught in this stage, gum disease can be completely cured with the help of a doctor along with home remedies and proper dental hygiene.
If gums are red and swollen, they can indicate gum disease. Gums generally tend to be sore and bleed very easily when disturbed even slightly (like normal brushing).
Treatments -Seeking professional treatment from a dentist and getting your teeth cleaned once a year can lead to the complete reversal of Gingivitis. Along with that, one needs to follow proper dental hygiene. This includes brushing teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash. To maximize effectiveness, one can also try using an electric toothbrush or electric flosser. Regularly rinsing your mouth with lukewarm salt water helps in reducing bacteria in the mouth and soothes gums.
Periodontitis -Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease that is similar to Gingivitis except it not only affects the gum but also the teeth and jawbone. There are four stages or types of Periodontitis-
Along with redness, soreness, and swelling, gums appear separated from the teeth.
Treatments -For treating Periodontitis, one should go to a dentist who will thoroughly clean the teeth. Advanced cases however often require surgery.
Gum Recession -The gum lines pull away either due to gum disease, teeth grinding, brushing excessively, chewing tobacco, etc. This recession of the gum line exposes the root of the teeth which contains all the nerve endings. This causes sensitivity to temperature.
Symptoms -Along with redness and swelling, one might experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and loosening of the teeth. Gums can also look like they are shrinking.
Treatments -A dentist deep cleans the affected area which is called root planing or tooth scaling. Antibiotics are suggested when this procedure is performed. If the case is advanced, gum surgery might be required.
Gum Abscess -When there is an infection between the space of the teeth and the gum, Gum Abscess occurs. Periodontitis is the leading cause of Gum Abscess, but it can also be caused due to a weak immune system, stress, or chronic illness.
Symptoms -A Gum Abscess might often go unnoticed in the early stages. If there is persistent pain in an area that also has some redness and swelling, it might be a symptom of Gum Abscess. In advanced stages your teeth might be sensitive to temperature, there might be pain, pus discharge (which can be identified by a random bad taste in the mouth), and fever.
Treatments -If you notice any of these symptoms, you must immediately go to a dentist. A dentist does a thorough checkup of the gum and drains the abscess by making a small incision. After which the dentist does deep cleaning to remove all the bacteria that led to the abscess. Dental X-ray is also often suggested to check for any bone loss.
Any symptoms that might suggest any gum disease should never be ignored. One should always maintain proper oral hygiene and visit a dentist at least once a year.
