Gum disease occurs when the tissues that support the molars (gums, bone, and ligaments) become inflamed or infected. Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two most common forms of gum disease.
Gingivitis, the mildest form of gingivitis, typically manifests as redness, puffiness, and bleeding in the gums. Infection caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar around the gums leads to gingivitis. In the early phases of gingivitis, good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, can be beneficial.
The advanced stage of gingivitis is periodontitis. This condition also results in irritation of the bones beneath the gums and the fibers that hold the teeth in place. If treatment is not initiated at this point, periodontitis will result in tooth loss.
Reasons for Gum Disease
Among the causes of gum disease are:
- Inadequate oral hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene, such as not brushing the teeth regularly, not cleaning between the teeth, and not cleansing the tongue, leads to the accumulation of bacterial plaque and gum disease.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the likelihood of developing periodontal disease and complicates its treatment.
- Nutrition: Malnutrition, particularly a deficiency in vitamin C, calcium, and other nutrients, can negatively impact periodontal health.
- Genetic factors: Some genetic factors may increase gum disease susceptibility.
- Medication: Certain medications can increase the likelihood of gum disease. Antidepressants, heart medications, and chemotherapy medicines, for instance, can have negative effects on gum health.
- Orthodontic issues: Closing issues or crooked teeth increase the likelihood of periodontal disease.
Gum disease can be caused by any combination of these factors. To prevent gum disease, it is essential to develop excellent oral hygiene habits, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Disease?
Gum disease often manifests as redness, swelling and bleeding along the gum line. The main symptoms of gum disease are:
- Tenderness or pain in the gums
- Widening of spaces between teeth
- Recession in the gums
- Retraction of the gum line
- Rocking or displacement of teeth
- Bad breath or bad taste
- Abscess formation in the gums
Gum disease symptoms are often associated with risk factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, hormonal changes, or genetic factors. It is important to see a dentist when signs of gum disease are noticed. Early diagnosis and treatment can stop the progression of gum disease and prevent tooth loss.
Treatment of Gum Disease
Tartar cleansing
Tartar is an accumulation of mineralized plaque that solidifies on the teeth. Ultrasonic technology is utilized in the calculus cleansing procedure. Circulating the device’s tip over the dental surfaces softens and disintegrates tartar, which is then removed from the teeth. Following the removal of plaque and tartar, the tooth surfaces are also made flat.
The scaling procedure is painless, but the gums may experience some sensitivity during the procedure. You may experience mild adverse effects following the procedure, such as gum sensitivity or bleeding. Typically, these adverse effects disappear within a few days.
Gum Pocket Cleaning
There is a small space between the tooth and gum in a gingival pocket. The dentist uses a specialized instrument to scrub gum pockets, which helps to eliminate gingivitis and restore gingival health.
Bone Graft
Bone grafting is the process of replacing or reconstructing bone tissue that has been removed or damaged. During the procedure, surgical operations are used to transfer tissue fragments from the donor area to the patient. In cases such as advanced periodontal disease and bone loss, this technique is utilized.
Scaling and root planning of the teeth
Scaling and root planning are dental procedures used to eliminate tartar and plaque from tooth roots. Using a special instrument, root planning is the procedure of removing plaque from tooth root surfaces.
In order to preserve the periodontal health achieved after a successful periodontal treatment and to prevent a recurrence of the disease, we include our patients in a periodic control program. We minimize the recurrence of tissue deterioration and disease symptoms as a result of our clinic’s routine examinations and the various recommendations we provide to our patients regarding their own oral hygiene.
Dentist Müge Ateş advises that early diagnosis is a crucial step in this regard and that you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible if you exhibit the aforementioned symptoms.
