The Root Cause of Gum Disease and How to Treat It

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health issues dentists encounter in patients of all ages. It can range from mild gum irritation to severe conditions that affect the tissues and bones supporting your teeth. The root cause of gum disease is typically the accumulation of plaque on the teeth and gums. Understanding the causes of gum disease and how to treat it is crucial for maintaining long-term oral health and reducing the risk of complications.

What causes gum disease?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the primary cause of gum disease is the buildup of plaque, which is most often a direct result of poor oral hygiene. When patients do not regularly remove food particles and bacteria through brushing and flossing, plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, begins to form on the teeth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which is only removable with professional dental tools. When left untreated, tartar can irritate the gum tissue and cause it to become inflamed, leading to gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease.

Symptoms of periodontal disease

Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed when brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can result in gum recession, loose teeth, and ultimately, tooth loss. While the most common cause of gum disease is poor oral hygiene, other risk factors include:

• Smoking or other tobacco use
• Genetics
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune diseases)
• Medications

How to treat gum disease

It is important to note that, even in its early stages, gum disease is still an infection that can spread quickly throughout the mouth. Therefore, patients will want to address it as soon as possible with the help of a general dentist. The treatment for gum disease depends on the severity of the condition. If caught early, the dentist and patient can work together to reverse it with improved oral hygiene practices.

For more advanced stages, such as periodontitis, extensive treatments are necessary. Some of the most common gum disease treatment options include:

• Scaling and root planing. Also called deep cleaning, this treatment involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing out the roots of the teeth to prevent further bacterial buildup.
• Antibiotics. In some cases, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help control bacterial infections in the gums. These can be in the form of oral medications or topical gels that they apply directly to the gums.
• Gum surgery. In more severe cases of gum disease, surgical intervention may be necessary. Gum grafting can help restore gum health, prevent further damage, and boost approval odds for dental implant candidacy.
• Laser treatment. Some dental offices offer laser treatments for gum disease. This minimally invasive option uses focused light energy to remove infected tissue and promote gum healing.
• Improved oral hygiene. Practicing proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing and treating gum disease. Brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove plaque and bacteria from the mouth.

How to prevent gum disease

Even after successful treatment, gum disease can return if patients are not vigilant with their oral hygiene routines. Oral hygiene routines do not stop at home; they continue with biannual or as recommended checkups to the dentist. These checkups allow the dentist to detect early signs of gum disease and provide professional cleanings to remove tartar before it causes another round of gum disease.

Aside from oral hygiene, patients should quit smoking, vaping, and using tobacco products of any kind. These products or activities significantly weaken the immune system, reduce blood flow, and inhibit healing, allowing gum disease and other problems to thrive. Moreover, managing underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, can help reduce the risk of developing gum disease because some of them inhibit healing and blood flow within the body, including the gums.

Lastly, patients should maintain a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals. Foods that support a healthy microbiome, such as crunchy vegetables, fruits, and leafy greens, introduce good bacteria that can fight the bad. This healthy diet can help maintain oral cavity balance, along with optimal oral hygiene practices, and reduce the chances of gum disease from recurring.

Address gum disease at Lilburn Family Dentistry

Gum disease is a preventable and treatable condition that can have serious consequences if left untreated. Poor oral hygiene is the leading cause of gum disease, but other factors also contribute to the condition. If you are showing signs of gum disease, contact Lilburn Family Dentistry for treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.lilburnfamilydentistry.com or call Lilburn Family Dentistry at (770) 800-0178 for an appointment in our Lilburn office.

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