One of the most common causes of gingivitis is the buildup of bacteria (called plaque) on the teeth and gums leading to irritation and pain. Other causes of gingivitis include mechanical irritation, medications, nutritional deficiencies or other systemic illnesses. Infections in the teeth or mouth can also lead to gum pain symptoms.
They may also take dental X-rays or refer you to a periodontist, an expert in the diagnosis and treatment of gum disease, for further testing and treatment. Bacteria in the mouth infect tissue surrounding the tooth, causing inflammation around the tooth leading to periodontal disease. When bacteria stay on the teeth long enough, they form a film called plaque, which eventually hardens to tartar, also called calculus. Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes the teeth harder to clean.
Olerud et al. (2012) reported that 92% of the participants received routine dental care [41]. A total of 40.8% of the participants reported visiting a dentist. 21.9% of the participants visited their doctor once per year, while 67.6% went to doctor appointments every six months or less [22]. In this study, one visit per year according for 32.9% of the patients.
It’s important to have regular dental check-ups so any problems with your teeth and gums can be detected and treated early. Bone and tissue graft surgeries improve lost bone structure and help your gums grow back. For a bone graft, a dental surgeon will use either an artificial bone or bone harvested from other parts of the body to restore the loss of bone in your mouth. 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.
When it comes to dental health, it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between gum disease and injury. Both can result in similar symptoms such as swelling, redness, and discomfort. However, understanding the differences between the two is crucial in order to receive the proper treatment.
Gum Disease
Left untreated, gum disease can take a toll on your oral and overall health. Scaling and root planing is similar to routine dental cleaning. But it cleans deeper beneath your gums, removing plaque and bacteria where your toothbrush and floss can’t reach. Periodontists recommend this treatment for people with mild gum disease. But periodontal disease can cause discolored (reddish or purplish), swollen, bleeding gums.
They can also help suppress destruction of your tooth’s attachment to your bone. There are a variety of treatments for gum disease, depending on the stage of the disease, how you’ve responded to past treatments, and your overall health. There are a variety of treatments for gum disease, depending on the stage of your disease, how you’ve responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health. You can develop a gum infection when plaque extends below the gum line.
There are a few symptoms that may indicate receding gums. Class 3 recession is where there is a loss of bone in between the teeth and a loss of soft tissue. If this stage becomes more severe, only partial coverage of the root can be achieved with treatment. However, in milder cases of Class 3, it is possible to restore complete root coverage during treatment. Some bacteria in plaque are harmless, but some are harmful for the health of your gums. If you don’t remove plaque from your teeth by brushing them, it builds up and irritates your gums.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is typically caused by poor oral hygiene habits that allow plaque to build up on the teeth and harden into tartar. Without proper treatment, gum disease can progress and lead to tooth loss.
- Common symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums
- Swollen or tender gums
- Receding gums
- Bad breath
Treatment for Gum Disease
If you suspect you have gum disease, it is important to see a dentist for an evaluation. Treatment may involve professional cleanings, scaling and root planing, antibiotics, and in severe cases, surgery.
Injury
Injury to the gums can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as accidentally biting down on a hard object, trauma to the mouth, or using a toothbrush with bristles that are too firm. Injuries to the gums can cause pain and swelling, but they are usually localized to the affected area.
- Common causes of gum injuries include:
- Accidental biting
- Blunt trauma
- Aggressive tooth brushing
Treatment for Gum Injury
For minor gum injuries, it is important to avoid irritating the affected area further. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the injury is more severe or does not improve, seek dental care promptly.
Whether you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or an injury, it is always best to consult with a dental professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking timely dental care can help prevent both gum disease and injuries to the gums in the future.
