The germs (bacteria) in plaque irritate the gums, causing them to bleed easily. It occurs when plaque builds up on your teeth along your gumline. Severe gum disease can lead to the loss of tissues that hold your teeth in place.
This medication is available as a mouth rinse, or as a gelatin-filled chip that’s placed in pockets after root planing. Other antibiotics, including doxycycline, tetracycline, and minocycline (Arestin), may also be used to treat gum disease. Your dentist will know if you need meds and which ones are best for you. In some people, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis – with the destruction of the gingival fibers, the gum tissues separate from the tooth and deepened sulcus, called a periodontal pocket.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It is often caused by poor oral hygiene habits that lead to the buildup of plaque on the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss and other serious health complications.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Gum disease is primarily caused by the bacteria found in plaque, a sticky film that forms on the teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and infection.
If you find and treat gingivitis early, you can avoid permanent damage to your teeth and gums. See a dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups, not just when you have a toothache or another dental issue. Gum disease is quite common but it doesn’t get better without improved oral hygiene habits and professional dental care. Usually, people with gum disease will see their gums begin to bleed when they brush and floss their teeth. If the problem continues, it leads to more inflammation and gums begin to recede. Pocket spaces form between the gum and the tooth, which may become sensitive.
Symptoms of Gum Disease
These complications can increase in severity when a patient has poor control of their blood glucose levels. Your dental practitioner will also provide information on how to cleaning your teeth well. Your gums may shrink down from the tooth, exposing the surface of the tooth’s root.
In fact, most people don’t experience pain with gum disease — especially during the early stages. Almost half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease. Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that can lead to tooth loss, bone loss and other serious health complications.
“A quick brush is not going to remove the plaque,” notes Dr. Foyle. Early stage gum disease (gingivitis) may have no warning signs at all, according to the American Academy of Periodontology. Read more about how to care for your teeth and gums at teeth.org.au. As well as harming your teeth, gum disease can affect your health in other ways. Gingivitis typically develops due to a bacterial infection caused by plaque overgrowth.
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Swollen or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
- Loose or shifting teeth
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist for an evaluation and possible treatment.
Preventing Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy diet can also help reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Treatment for Gum Disease
- Professional cleaning
- Scaling and root planing
- Antibiotics
- Surgery (in severe cases)
If you are diagnosed with gum disease, your dentist may recommend one or more of these treatments to help improve the health of your gums and prevent further damage to your teeth.
Overall, gum disease is a common but preventable condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. By practicing good oral hygiene habits and seeking prompt treatment for any symptoms of gum disease, you can help protect your smile and your overall health.
