How often do you visit your dentist? Like many people, accessing the dentist might only cross your mind when there’s something wrong with your teeth. But regular dental care checkups or preventative treatment are essential oral health care for avoiding severe dental health issues, such as gum disease.
Gum disease can begin at any age and develop gradually without causing pain. Sometimes the signs might be unnoticeable until it destroys gum tissue, gum line, and jawbone, and you’re already at risk of tooth loss. This is more prevalent than tooth decay and other oral health problems.
In fact, 7 out of 10 Canadians will suffer any form of gum disease at some stage of their lives, according to the Canadian Dental Association. This is why people need to take their gum health more seriously.
To increase better awareness, here are the most common conditions and primary reasons for developing them.
Gingivitis
This type of gum disease is usually harmless and disappears quickly. It happens when bacteria and plaque accumulate in the mouth, resulting in an infection or inflammation of the gums. Since it’s an early stage of gum disease, the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth are still in place. Thus, treatment can reverse the damage with the help of a dentist.
However, untreated gingivitis can cause permanent damage and loose teeth. It’s crucial to treat this condition promptly before it worsens. While gingivitis isn’t always easy to detect, experiencing bleeding gums when brushing teeth is a common first sign.
Periodontal Disease aka Gum Disease
Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is a severe bacterial infection that attacks the gums and surrounding tissues. It’s the progressed form of gingivitis that’s left untreated. The gums and bone structures supporting the teeth are damaged during this stage.
The common signs of this periodontal disease are gums receding or pulling away from the teeth. As the inflammation spreads, the symptoms become more severe. You may experience discomfort, less supporting bones, and loosened teeth.
The gum tissues’ destruction only worsens as the condition progresses to chronic periodontitis, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. You can prevent it by getting help from a periodontist or a dentist specializing in periodontal disease.
Gum Recession
This gum disease occurs when your gum line pulls away from its original attachment, exposing the root or cementum underneath. This condition can affect people of all ages, but it’s most frequent in people over 65.
Poor hygiene or not properly taking care of your gums is a contributing factor. However, it’s not always the case. Many people have a genetic predisposition to thin gum tissue, making them more susceptible to gum recession.
Since this gum disease occurs gradually, many people don’t realize they already have receding gums. But tooth sensitivity, discomfort in the gum line, or tooth appearing longer than usual are often the first signs of gum recession. And, if left untreated, it can result in serious dental health problems, such as bone loss, tooth mobility, or tooth loss.
Gum Abscess
Unlike any other form of gum disease, a gum abscess is often associated with intense throbbing pain. It occurs when a pocket of pus forms on the gum. Besides pain when chewing, other signs of a gum abscess include an unpleasant taste, redness, swelling, and bleeding.
Note that this gum disease will not completely heal on its own. You must see a dentist for proper gum abscess treatment. Severe infections may result in fractures into the root or tooth loss.
Gum Cancer
Gum cancer is oral cancer that starts when cells in the upper or lower gum soft tissues grow uncontrollably and develop lesions or tumours. There are still questions about the exact causes of gum cancer. Generally, excessive consumption of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages can increase the risk of gum cancer and mouth cancer.
It’s easily mistaken as gum disease, so it’s essential to have a routine dental exam. Early detection and treatment of this condition can help achieve the possible outcome. You should see a dentist if you have unusual growths on your gums that don’t go away after two weeks.
Primary Reasons for Developing Gum Conditions
Plaque accumulation on teeth and along the gum line is the primary reason for gum disease. It’s a thick film of bacteria that produce acids after eating or drinking. Such acids can destroy tooth enamel and cause cavities and gum disease.
But, besides plaque buildup, other risk factors can contribute to gum disease, such as the following:
- Hormonal changes, like those that occur during pregnancy, monthly menstrual cycles, or the menopause transition phase, make gums more susceptible to infection and gum disease if the initial problem is left untreated.
- A family history of gum disease can also be a contributing factor to developing bacterial infection and gum conditions.
- Some medications may have side effects that decrease saliva production and flow, causing dry mouth and encouraging bacterial growth.
- Some systemic diseases can interfere with the body’s inflammatory system, worsening gum conditions. Health conditions like heart disease are often associated with the bacteria present in gum disease.
- Poor oral hygiene makes bacteria stay on the teeth long enough to build up tartar and increase the risk of developing periodontal disease.
Tips for Treating and Preventing Gum Conditions
A periodontist or general dentist may perform treatment for gum conditions. Treating gum disease may involve less invasive or non-surgical procedures, such as scaling and root planing if diagnosed early.
Such treatment options aim to thoroughly clean the spaces or openings around teeth and prevent damage to the surrounding bone. But, if your condition has already progressed to advanced periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend dental surgery. After surgery, taking antibiotics or other medicines might be necessary to help heal and prevent infection.
Although some causes of gum disease aren’t preventable, good oral hygiene habits can make a big difference. Brushing, rinsing with mouthwash, and flossing can help prevent plaque buildup and bacteria from causing inflammation of the gums.
Using the right toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride may also help protect the teeth and gums against acid production of bacteria. Also, professional cleaning and routine exams by the dentist are great ways to maintain healthy gums and teeth. This can also help in identifying oral conditions as early as possible.
Did you know?
|
Get Your Gum Condition Treated Today
Having healthy gums is vital both for your oral health and general well-being. The effects of gum disease go throughout the body and may increase the risk for other health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory disease. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups can help prevent bacterial infection and gum disease.
But, if you ever experience any signs of gum disease, Dentistry on 7th offers high-quality dental service. We have the best dentist in Hamilton Ontario, who can help stop your condition from worsening. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for your dental care needs.
To know more about periodontitis or other forms of gum disease, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, contact our staff at Dentistry on 7th. Our dental professionals are ready to answer any questions and help you bring your teeth and gums back to good health.
FAQs on the Most Common Gum Conditions
1. What are common signs of a gum problem?
The typical warning signs of a gum problem include the following:
- Persistent bad breath or bad taste that won’t go away
- Tender, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Painful chewing
- Sensitive and loose teeth
- Receding gums
2. Can gum disease lead to other health issues?
Gums can serve as a barrier that helps prevent inflammation in your body. And gum disease has been associated with other health problems like diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and premature births.
3. When should I see a dentist or periodontist?
Your dentist is your first point of contact for dental checkups and cleanings. Ideally, you should see a dentist every six months. But, if you can’t, it’s essential to observe any changes in your teeth or gums.
If you experience any unusual symptoms, you should get an appointment with your general dentist. They may refer you to a periodontist if they find signs of gum problems or a rapidly progressing gum disease. Note that you don’t necessarily need a referral for a periodontal consultation.