What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as Periodontitis, occurs due to bacterial growth in the mouth and can lead to gum deterioration and loosening teeth. What is gingivitis? It usually starts as gingivitis gums with red and irritated gums and progresses to a more serious, although relatively rare condition.

Periodontitis affects the area just below the gum line, between your teeth and gums, breaking down the tissue that holds your teeth in their sockets. Once this tissue has been destroyed, more and more bacteria accumulate, leading to different gum infection symptoms.

Causes

Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease. These include:

– Hormonal changes with pregnancy, puberty, and menopause makes gums more sensitive and more accessible to develop gingivitis.
– Illnesses as cancer, HIV, or diabetes that interfere significantly with the immune system puts people at a higher risk of developing infections such as cavities and periodontal disease.
– Medications can affect oral health. Some lessen the amount of saliva your mouth produces, which protects your teeth and gums, and other drugs can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue.
– Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to numerous oral problems but ultimately make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself.
– Poor oral hygiene such as inconsistent brushing or flossing
– Family history of gum or gingivitis gum disease can also be a contributing factor.

Symptoms

– Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
– Receding gums
– Pus around gums
– Chronic bad breath
– Loose teeth
– A noticeable way in which your teeth fit together

– If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to see your dentist determine the severity of the gum infection and how you can treat it.

Treatments

How to treat gum disease? Depending on the severity of the infection, there are different treatment options that you’ll discuss with your dental professional.

– Antibiotics: Either prescribed as pills or an injection right into the infected gums
– Root Planning and Scaling: With advanced gum infections, this treatment cleans deeply between your gums and teeth to the roots.