Gum Disease Treatment | Emergency Dentist

Gum disease is caused by ongoing inflammation of the gum. It starts with gingivitis, which is a milder form, and can progress to periodontitis if left untreated. Periodontitis is when the inflammation progresses to the socket of the teeth, and if left untreated, can cause the teeth to become loose. Gingivities starts when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is allowed to build up on teeth and gums.

The symptoms of Gingivitis include:

1. Red, swollen, or tender gums

2. Bleeding during brushing or flossing

3. Bad breath,

4. Mild discomfort in the gums.

However, it gingivitis is easily reversible with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care.

When left untreated gingivitis can progress to Periodontitis. The symptoms of this condition include:

1. Receding gums,

2. Pockets forming between teeth and gums

3. Pus between teeth

4. Persistent bad breath,

5. Changes in the bite

6. Loose teeth.

Early periodontitis leads to deterioration of bone, tooth ligaments and gum tissue. When it progresses to advanced periodontitis, tooth loss becomes likely as there will be significant damage to the surrounding structures. However, its not all bad news, as the symptoms are obvious and if dealt with promptly should never progress to severe periodontitis. You’re smile is so important to your dental health, so Pure Dental Care strongly recommend having a regular clean (every 6 months) to ward off gum disease .

The risk factors for high incidence of gum disease include:

• Smoking and tobacco, which increase the risk and severity of gum disease

• Some individuals are more genetically predisposed to gum disease

• Medical conditions, like Diabetes, immune disorders, and hormonal changes can impact gum health.

• Certain medications may affect oral health and increase susceptibility to gum disease.

If you can relate to some of these factors, you should be extra careful with your oral hygiene and dental check-ups.

Treatment for gum disease is as simple as professional tooth cleaning. Dental professionals can perform thorough cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, even from below the gumline. For more advanced cases, a deep clean may be needed to remove tartar (hardened plaque) and smooth root surfaces. A deep clean often involves a scaler, which is like a mini pressure sprayer - it shoots a jet of highly-pressurised water to remove toughened buildup around the teeth. In some cases, antibiotics, mouth rinses, and gels may be prescribed to control bacteria and reduce inflammation. When a tooth has become loose, due to prolonged periodontitis, surgical procedures may need to performed. These procedures include flap surgery or bone grafts to repair gum damage, or help rebuild the surrounding bones within the gum.

What can you do to prevent gum disease? First and foremost, if you’re not brushing and flossing adequetely, you leave yourself open to plaque build-up and gingivits. When complemented by regular dental check-ups, and through education and training in brushing technique, gingivitis is avoidable. Another tip is to adopt a healthy, sugar-minimal diet. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limited sugary snacks, can really help keep the gums in good shape. Lastly, managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and hobbies, as opposed to comfort eating can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.