An aesthetic smile is the expression of power;
the smile is the sharp sword of this power.

What are Gum Diseases?

Gum diseases refer to infections and inflammations that occur in the gums. There are two main types of these diseases: gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is defined as a mild inflammation of the gums. It usually occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene. When dental plaque and tartar build up in the gums, the gums may become red, swollen, and begin to bleed.

Periodontitis is the spread of infection in the gums to the bone tissue that supports the teeth. If dental plaque and tartar settle below the gum line, the gums recede and loosening of the teeth or even tooth loss may occur.

Other types of gum diseases include aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, necrotizing periodontal disease, and periodontal abscess.

What are the Causes of Gum Diseases?

Gum diseases are a series of infection conditions that occur due to the accumulation of bacterial plaques at the gum line. These bacterial plaques accumulate on tooth surfaces due to reasons such as lack of tooth brushing or flossing.

The most common cause of gum disease is plaque buildup, but other factors may also play a role. These include smoking, hormonal changes, familial predisposition, stress, malnutrition, diabetes and some medications.

Additionally, improper alignment of the teeth and crooked or receding teeth directed towards the gums can also cause gum disease. Some systemic diseases can also affect gum health.

What are the symptoms of gum diseases?

Symptoms of gum disease may include:

• Swelling, redness or tenderness of the gums: Healthy gums are pale pink and firm. As gum disease progresses, gums become swollen, red and sensitive.
• Gum recession: Gum diseases can cause gums to recede. In this case, teeth may appear longer and tooth roots may be exposed.
• Bleeding gums: Healthy gums do not bleed. If your gums bleed while brushing your teeth or flossing, this may be a sign of gum disease.
• Bad breath: Gum diseases can cause bad breath.
• Loosing teeth: When gum disease progresses, it can cause serious problems such as loosening and slipping of teeth.
• Pust: Gum disease can cause an infection from bacteria that accumulates around the teeth. This infection can lead to inflammation of the gums and surrounding tissues and the accumulation of pus.

The severity of symptoms may vary depending on the progression of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can stop the progression of gum disease and reduce damage.

How to Treat Gum Diseases?

There are several different methods and practices for treating and preventing gum diseases.

• Professional dental cleaning: A professional dental cleaning by a dentist is the most important step in preventing gum diseases. Cleaning tartar and plaque on the tooth surface can prevent the progression of gum diseases.
• Surgical treatments: If gum diseases are advanced, the dentist may recommend surgical treatments. These include cleaning of gum pockets, bone grafts, gum transplants, and others.
• Antibiotic treatment: Antibiotics can be used in the treatment of gum diseases. Antibiotics slow the progression of the disease by reducing infection in the gums.

What Should Be Done to Prevent Gum Diseases?