If left untreated, it can eventually lead to other dental and jawbone problems. However, most gum disease should not cause loose teeth, numbness, or deep-seated pain. Those are all signs that something more serious is going on. The successful treatment of any gum diseases depends in part on getting regular dental checkups and following a complete oral hygiene routine.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can range from mild inflammation of the gums to serious infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. But what exactly is the most common cause of gum disease?
Antibacterial rinses can reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease, according to the American Dental Association. Ask your dentist which mouthwash would work best for you. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Don’t wait until something gets stuck between your teeth.
To treat lost tissue, they can also place a small mesh-like material between tooth and gum to guide regrowth. They can also harvest gum tissue from other parts of the mouth and suture it to the affected areas in your mouth. Gum disease is an early stage of periodontal disease (PD), a severe oral condition that permanently damages the gums and jawbone.
Some people are simply more prone to having the kind that causes gum disease. Research has also proven that gum disease has a direct impact on your overall health and well-being. There’s a link between gum disease and other health issues like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth using special instruments, then polish your teeth to remove marks or stains. If a lot of plaque or tartar has built up, you may need to have more than one scale and polish.
Your dentist can diagnose gum disease by examining your mouth. They may take X-rays and measure the pocket depth between your gums and teeth to determine the extent of attachment loss. Hygienists and dentists take six measurements for every tooth to evaluate their health and any presence of gum disease. A normal or healthy range is between 1 millimeter (mm) and 3 mm. With gums that bleed, there is more to think about than the pain or discomfort of the bleeding itself. Other health issues can arise if your bleeding is related to gum disease.
A minor tooth crack typically isn’t painful and may be harmless. Cracked tooth syndrome results from bruxism, which occurs when excessive grinding or teeth clenching causes an internal crack in your tooth. Ann Gillenwater, M.D., is the leader of several clinical trials using photo-immunotherapy to treat cancers that have persisted or recurred despite other therapies. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Being deficient in vitamins, especially vitamins B and C, can cause gum swelling.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Although sexual dysfunction and gum health seem worlds apart, there are a number of potential ways in which they could influence each other. For instance, the authors of a literature review published in 2016 identify an association between erectile dysfunction and chronic periodontitis. Primarily, inflammation is a response to irritants or pathogens; it is a protective mechanism.
The most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can harden into tartar if not removed. This can irritate your gums and lead to gum disease.
Other Factors Contributing to Gum Disease
In addition to poor oral hygiene, there are other factors that can contribute to gum disease, including:
- Smoking or tobacco use: Smoking weakens your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections like gum disease.
- Genetics: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to gum disease than others.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes and HIV/AIDS can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of gum disease.
Preventing Gum Disease
The good news is that gum disease is preventable with proper oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings can help keep your gums healthy and reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
By understanding the most common cause of gum disease and taking steps to prevent it, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
