Gum Treatment
Gum disease is a common issue, ranging from mild gingivitis to more advanced periodontitis. It can lead to symptoms like redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, which can be uncomfortable and affect your daily life. However, the good news is that, with proper care and treatment, you can protect your gums and maintain excellent oral health.
What is gum disease (periodontal disease)?
Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the tissues that
surround and support your teeth. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums,
which causes irritation and damage to the gums, bones, and ligaments that keep your teeth in place.
surround and support your teeth. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth and gums,
which causes irritation and damage to the gums, bones, and ligaments that keep your teeth in place.
Symptoms
The following are the symptoms of a gum disease:
- Bleeding from gums while brushing teeth, flossing or eating hard foods such as
apples. - Swollen, inflamed or sore gums that may be tender to the touch.
- Persistent bad breath and unpleasant taste in your mouth, even after brushing or using
mouthwash. - Gum recession, where your gums start to pull back from your teeth and expose the
roots. - Loose teeth that may even fall out or shift out of position.
Stages of periodontal disease
There are two main stages of periodontal disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is
the early stage and is characterized by mild inflammation and bleeding gums. If left
untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum
disease that can cause permanent damage to the gums and bones.
the early stage and is characterized by mild inflammation and bleeding gums. If left
untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is a more severe form of gum
disease that can cause permanent damage to the gums and bones.
Treatment
The treatment for gum disease is determined by the severity of the infection. In mild cases of
gingivitis, a professional cleaning and basic dental hygiene practices at home may suffice. In
more severe situations, scaling and root planning, antibiotic therapy, or surgical procedures
may be required.
gingivitis, a professional cleaning and basic dental hygiene practices at home may suffice. In
more severe situations, scaling and root planning, antibiotic therapy, or surgical procedures
may be required.