Gum Disease: Causes, Types, and Treatments

Understanding Gum Disease Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the soft tissues surrounding the teeth, primarily caused by poor oral hygiene. Even with proper brushing and flossing, some individuals may be more susceptible due to the unique structure of their teeth and gums. Early signs include swollen, reddened, and bleeding gums. If untreated, gum disease can lead to gum recession, tooth decay, and even bone loss.

What is Gum Disease? Gum disease is characterized by inflammation of the gums and the tissues supporting the teeth. Initial symptoms include gum bleeding during brushing and bad breath. As the condition progresses, symptoms can worsen, potentially leading to loose teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss. Serious health conditions like heart disease and oral cancer have also been linked to advanced gum disease.

Symptoms of Gum Disease Symptoms of gum disease vary by stage but commonly include:

• Tender and bleeding gums during brushing or flossing.
• Swollen, red, and painful gums.
• Tartar buildup on the tooth surface.

More advanced stages may bring persistent bad breath, gum recession, and changes in jaw alignment. Notably, smokers may not experience typical symptoms like gum bleeding due to nicotine’s effect on blood vessels.

Types of Gum Disease Gum diseases range from mild to severe:

• Gingivitis: The earliest stage, marked by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. It is reversible with proper oral hygiene.
• Periodontitis: If gingivitis is untreated, it advances to periodontitis, characterized by the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums. These pockets harbor bacteria, leading to gum recession and potential bone loss. Types of periodontitis include:
  • Aggressive Periodontitis: Often influenced by genetic factors.
  • Chronic Periodontitis: The most common form, leading to pocket formation and bone loss.
• Periodontal Abscess: A painful infection of the supporting bone and tissues, requiring immediate treatment.

Treatments for Gum Disease Treatment varies depending on the stage:

• Non-Surgical Treatments:
  • Dental Cleaning: Early-stage gum disease can often be managed with professional cleaning and improved oral hygiene.
  • Scaling and Root Planning: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar beneath the gum line.
  • Antibiotic Therapy: Used to eliminate bacteria from the gums.
• Surgical Treatments:
  • Flap Surgery: Involves cleaning the roots and reshaping bone to reduce pocket depth.
  • Soft Tissue Grafts: Reinforces receded gums.
  • Bone Grafts: Encourages bone growth around the tooth root.
  • Tissue Regeneration: Stimulates regrowth of bone and gum tissue.

Causes of Gum Disease The primary cause is bacterial infection, exacerbated by factors like:

• Poor oral hygiene.
• Inadequate dental cleaning at home.
• Poor nutrition.
• Smoking, which reduces the tissue’s infection resistance.
• Systemic health issues, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
• Insufficient saliva production, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition.

Preventing Gum Disease Regular oral hygiene is key:

• Brush at least twice daily for two minutes.
• Use dental floss to clean between teeth.
• Consider antiseptic mouthwash to prevent plaque.
• Pay extra attention to cleaning around braces, fillings, and dentures.
• Visit your dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings.

Maintaining a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and managing stress can also contribute to gum disease prevention. Consult your dentist for personalized advice on maintaining optimal oral health.