GUM DISEASE

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is an infection that affects the gums and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Symptoms include swollen and discoloured gums, gum sensitivity, bleeding, bad breath, and the formation of spaces between teeth.

The disease is caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar build-up, leading to soft tissue irritation. Antibiotics may be prescribed for medical treatment, while natural remedies include incorporating foods like apple and celery into the diet, practising proper oral hygiene, and using anti-inflammatory herbs like sage and turmeric.

Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin D is also beneficial in managing gum disease.

Description

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition affecting the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. It occurs due to the build-up of plaque, a bacterial film on the teeth. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to gum inflammation.

Symptoms include swollen, tender gums that bleed during brushing. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, causing gum recession and tooth-supporting structure damage.

Prevention through regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene, and a healthy diet is vital. Treatment options include deep cleaning, antibiotics, and surgical interventions.

Managing systemic health conditions is also important, as gum disease can have systemic implications.

Symptoms

Gum disease can progress without causing significant pain, especially in its early stages:

Inflamed or Swollen Gums: In the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis), the gums may become red, swollen, and tender. This inflammation is often a result of the body's immune response to the presence of harmful bacteria in plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth.

Discoloration of the Gums: Healthy gums are typically pink in colour. When gums become diseased, they can appear dark red or even purple. This change in colour is due to increased blood flow and inflammation in the affected area.

Gums Sensitive to Touch: Inflamed gums are more sensitive and may bleed easily when touched, brushed, or flossed. This is a common early sign of gingivitis.

Blood on the Gums: Bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing, is a hallmark sign of gum disease. It's important not to ignore this symptom as it can indicate the presence of inflammation and infection.

Bad Breath (Halitosis): The build-up of bacteria and the release of toxins in the mouth can lead to persistent bad breath. This is often one of the noticeable symptoms of gum disease.

Pus Between the Teeth and Gums: In more advanced stages of gum disease (periodontitis), pockets can form between the teeth and gums, trapping bacteria and debris. Pus may develop in these pockets, leading to further inflammation and infection.

New Spaces Between the Teeth: As gum disease progresses, the supporting structures around the teeth, including bone, can be damaged. This can cause the teeth to shift or become more spaced apart.

Changes When Biting: Gum disease can result in changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite or chew. This can lead to discomfort or alterations in your bite pattern.

Types

Issues that affect the tissues surrounding the teeth include:

Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and involves inflammation of the gums (gingiva). It is usually caused by plaque build-up, which contains bacteria that irritate the gums.

Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis occurs when the inflammation spreads to the deeper supporting structures of the teeth, including the gum tissue, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. As the disease progresses, the gums may recede, forming pockets around the teeth, and the bone supporting the teeth may be damaged. This can lead to tooth mobility and, in severe cases, tooth loss.

Peri-Implantitis: Peri-implantitis is a specific type of gum disease that affects dental implants. It is characterised by inflammation and infection of the soft and hard tissues surrounding the dental implant. Peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss around the implant, jeopardising its stability and longevity.

Causes

Gum diseases are caused by:

Poor Oral Hygiene: The most significant risk factor for gum disease is inadequate oral hygiene. When you don't brush and floss regularly, plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on your teeth and gums. Over time, this can lead to inflammation and infection of the gums.

Aggressive Brushing: While brushing your teeth is essential for oral health, brushing too aggressively or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can harm your gums. It's important to brush gently but thoroughly to avoid irritating or damaging your gum tissue.

Tobacco Use: Smoking or using smokeless tobacco products increases the risk of gum disease. Tobacco use impairs blood flow to the gums, weakens the immune system's response, and hinders the body's ability to fight infections.

Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to gum disease. If you have a family history of gum problems, you may be at a higher risk.

Misaligned Teeth: Crooked or misaligned teeth can make it more challenging to clean between teeth and along the gumline. This can create areas where plaque can accumulate and increase the risk of gum disease.

Oral Piercings: Tongue or lip piercings can come into contact with gum tissue, leading to irritation and an increased risk of infection in the surrounding gum tissue.

Medical Conditions: Certain health conditions like diabetes and autoimmune diseases can increase the risk of gum disease.

Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can make gums more susceptible to inflammation and gum disease.

Medications: Some medications, like certain antihypertensive drugs and antipsychotics, can cause dry mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing the risk of gum disease.

Poor Nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients can weaken the immune system and negatively impact oral health.

Medical treatment

Antibiotics can be used to treat gum diseases, particularly when there is an active infection. Here are some antibiotics commonly prescribed for gum disease:

Amoxicillin: This is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that can be effective against various types of bacteria responsible for gum infections. It is often prescribed as a first-line treatment.

Erythromycin: Erythromycin is another antibiotic that can be used to treat gum infections. It belongs to the macrolide class of antibiotics.

Cephalosporins: Cephalosporins are a group of antibiotics that can be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including those affecting the gums.

Metronidazole: Metronidazole is often used in combination with other antibiotics to treat gum infections, particularly those caused by certain anaerobic bacteria.

Natural treatment

The natural treatment can help improve gum health and prevent further gum recession. Here's information on these approaches:

Dietary Changes: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, can promote healthy gums. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which is crucial for gum tissue health. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet, such as oranges, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers, which are excellent sources of vitamin C.

Flossing: Flossing is a critical part of maintaining good oral hygiene. It helps remove food particles and plaque build-up between teeth and along the gumline, reducing the risk of gum disease and gum recession. Be gentle when flossing to avoid causing additional irritation to your gums.

Brushing with a Soft Bristle Brush: Using a soft-bristle toothbrush is essential to prevent further damage to the gums. Brush your teeth gently, using circular motions, and avoid brushing too vigorously, as this can exacerbate gum recession.

Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and soothe gum discomfort. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.

Avoiding Tobacco: Smoking and tobacco use are significant risk factors for gum disease and gum recession. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can have a positive impact on your oral health.