Often, our dental care routines centre around our teeth, neglecting the importance of healthy gums. Many people are unsure of how to properly care for their gums, leading to gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases. These infections impact the tissues that surround and support your teeth. At Maeoris Dental, we believe that understanding these conditions is key to prevention. Let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and prevention of gum diseases.
What causes gum diseases
The primary cause of gum disease is plaque, a sticky, colourless film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. When you eat and drink, the bacteria in your mouth break down sugars and starches, forming plaque. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar, a hardened form of plaque, can only be removed by a dental professional and serves as a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to gum irritation and infection. The bacteria in plaque and tartar cause inflammation of the gums, a condition known as gingivitis – the earliest stage of gum disease. If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to more serious forms of gum disease.
Recognising the symptoms
Early detection of gum disease can prevent severe damage. Look out for these common symptoms:
-
- Swollen red gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pink. Redness and swelling are signs of inflammation.
-
- Bleeding gums: If your gums bleed during brushing or flossing, it’s a clear indicator of gum disease.
-
- Bad breath: Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can result from bacteria buildup.
-
- Receding gums: If your gums are pulling away from your teeth, creating pockets, it’s a sign of advanced gum disease.
-
- Loose teeth: In the later stages, gum disease can destroy the tissues and bones supporting your teeth, leading to loose or shifting teeth.
First visit for gum diseases – what to expect
When visiting the dentist for the first time regarding gum diseases, part of the standard routine is to check for pockets of space between the gums and teeth. These gaps indicate that periodontal disease is present. As the disease progresses, it creates pockets between the gums and teeth that allow bacteria and particles to get under the gumline, potentially leading to a severe infection beneath the gums.
The body’s white blood cells rush to combat the invading bacteria, but this response can also contribute to inflammation and tissue damage. Dentists use a probe to measure the depth of these pockets; deeper pockets suggest more advanced gum disease. Additionally, they may take X-rays to assess bone loss around the teeth. Recognising the extent of plaque buildup and tartar formation is crucial, as plaque can continue to spread under the gum tissue at an alarming rate, exacerbating the condition if left untreated.
Preventing gum diseases
The good news is that gum disease is largely preventable with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. Here’s what you can do:
-
- Maintain oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes to effectively remove plaque. Don’t forget to floss daily to eliminate food particles and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
-
- Regular dental visits: Schedule regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. Professional cleanings remove tartar and allow your dentist to catch early signs of gum disease, preventing it from progressing.
-
- Healthy lifestyle choices: Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients, especially vitamin C, to support gum health. Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they significantly increase your risk of developing gum disease.
Gum diseases are common but preventable. By maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your gums healthy and avoid the complications associated with periodontal diseases. If you experience any symptoms of gum disease, don’t hesitate to visit Maeoris Dental in Madurai and Dindigul for gum disease treatment. Our team is here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile with expert gum care in Madurai.
