Gum Diseases & Treatments

Gum or gingiva is the tissue that surrounds the tooth and bone by supporting them and protecting them from possible infections.

It is very important to keep gum clean and healthy, or else they may lead to infections involving tooth and its appendages.

Usually gum diseases are asymptomatic, and becomes evident only when patient experience pain and discomfort.

By that time it might have infected the whole structure of the tooth including adjacent areas. Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of gum infection. The debris and food waste collect or accumulate beneath the gum which can infect the whole structure.

These infections eventually affect the bone structure and may reduce its height.

There are 3 stages of gum diseases
In the first stage food debris and plaque (soft deposit) accumulate in the gums initiating infection. This stage is characterised by bleeding while brushing and flossing (Gingivitis).

This stage can be treated by cleaning of teeth and surrounding structures.

If first stage is not treated on time , the infection can spread to the bone and can lead to a condition known as periodontitis

Final stage is characterised by bone loss , which may result in tooth loosening.

Extractions might be indicated in advanced situations.

Chronic generalised periodontitis (Advanced stage of gum disease)

Dental Services

Causes of gum infections:

Poor oral hygiene
Malaligned teeth(crowding of teeth)
Smoking
Hormonal changes as in pregnancy, menopause, puberty etc
Certain medications
Diseases like HIV, diabetes etc

Symptoms of gum diseases:

Pus discharge
Swelling
Bad breath and bad taste
Tooth sensitivity
Pain while chewing
Red, inflamed and swollen gums

Treatment

Maintaining proper oral hygiene can solve gum diseases to a larger extent.
Deep cleaning of the deposits can be performed.
If they are beyond the control of cleaning surgeries can be performed (periodontal surgeries)
Overgrowth over the gum can be treated either with surgery or laser treatment
Dark pigmented gum can also be corrected by gum treatments.

Its always better to regularly brush and floss the teeth followed by dental visit every 6 months to ensure a healthy gum and teeth.

Frequently Asked
Questions

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What causes gum disease?

Poor oral hygiene
Malaligned teeth(crowding of teeth)
Smoking
Hormonal changes as in pregnancy, menopause, puberty etc
Certain medications
Diseases like HIV, diabetes etc

Are gum diseases linked to systemic health problems?

Studies have proved the link between systemic diseases and advanced gum diseases .

These diseases include gastro intestinal disease , cardiovascular diseases , diabetes , insulin resistance , colorectal cancer , respiratory tract infections and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

This is due to the presence of pathogens and their metabolic byproducts in advanced gum diseases modulating immune response beyond oral cavity resulting in many systemic illness.

Is gum disease reversible?

If treated early they can be reversed without causing further problems. Oral hygiene maintenance by brushing , flossing and professional cleaning every 6 months can prevent one from getting gum diseases

Is gum disease serious?

Early recognition and treatment can prevent further complications . If left untreated it can lead to other health issues like loosening of tooth because of lack of bone support , erosion of bone in the jaw and other studies have also shown that advanced gum diseases can cause heart diseases and other infections.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Brush your teeth twice a day
Practice good technique for brushing
Don’t forget the backs of your teeth while brushing
Floss gently. Take dental appointment for checkup every 6 months to ensure healthy gum