Why you should seek the assistance of a dentist when you notice the signs of gum disease

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by: Danny Devon
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Date: Mon, 7 Feb 2011 Time: 11:21 PM
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A bacterial infection surrounding the bones and tissue within the mouth, the signs of gum disease do not usually appear until people are in their 30s or 40s - with men more likely to develop gum disease than women. Divided into two stages, gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease affecting only the gums. The second type, periodontitis, is a more aggressive form of gum disease, which spreads to below the gums damaging the bone and tissues supporting the teeth.

- Gingivitis. Causing the gums to go red and inflamed, bleeding may occur whilst brushing your teeth. As bleeding is the first sign of gingivitis, it is imperative that you seek a dentist immediately as it can be reversed if detected early. By following a regular dental hygiene practice, brushing and flossing teeth twice a day may alleviate the swelling and cause the redness to disappear in a matter of days.
- Periodontitis. A more extreme stage of gingivitis, this type of gum disease can result in the loss of teeth. With the inflammation of the gums spreading to the bones supporting the teeth, this can leave gums vulnerable for bacteria to spread causing the gums to shrink, making the teeth look longer whilst damaging the gums.

The causes

Plaque (the sticky substance constantly forming on your teeth) is the most common cause of gum disease, as the bacteria in the plaque contains toxins that irritate the gums causing erosion in the gum tissues. If plaque is left on the teeth for too long, it may spread underneath the gums resulting in damage to the bone supporting the teeth. Should the plaque harden, it will turn into a substance called ‘tartar' which then needs to be removed by either a dentist or dental hygienist. Other contributing factors of gum disease can include:

- Poor oral hygiene/habits. Not brushing your teeth regularly will result in a build-up of plaque, as well as clenching or grinding your teeth. Putting excess force on the gums can quicken the rate at which the periodontal tissues are damaged.
- Smoking. Chewing tobacco and smoking will increase the development of gum disease as well as lower the chances for successful treatment.
- Genetics. Statistics show that up to 30 per cent of the population may be genetically susceptible to gum disease, and be six times more likely to develop periodontitis.
- Women's hormonal changes. Changes such as puberty or menopause can affect the gums, making them more sensitive and in turn resulting in possible gum disease.
- Ill health. Stressful conditions such as AIDS and diabetes can lower your body's immune system and affect the health of your gums.
- Medication. Over the counter and prescription medications can reduce the flow of saliva, which acts as a form of protection for the mouth. If levels of saliva are low, this leaves the mouth vulnerable to infections such as gum disease. Additionally, some medicines can cause an abnormal overgrowth of the gum tissue; making keeping gums clean a difficulty.

Treatment

The main aim in remedying gum disease is to control the infection. Practicing good oral hygiene such as regular brushing and flossing will help keep gum disease under control, and using electric toothbrushes prove more effective at reaching and eliminating plaque. A variety of treatments available may cover:

- Scaling and root planing. Once gum disease is diagnosed, it is strongly advised that you meet with your dentist for a deep-cleaning treatment known as scaling and root planing. Scaling involves scraping the tartar off above and below the gum line, whilst root planing destroys the spots on the root of the tooth where germs gather, removing bacteria that contributes to the disease.
- Medications. Combined with scaling and root planing treatment, medication may be used as a more powerful method of defeating gum disease.
- Surgery. If the gums are so ruined that the pockets become too deep for a dentist to clean, then you may need to have surgery. A periodontologist will insert cuts into the gum tissue forcing the gums to be pulled back, allowing the areas to be cleaned more effectively; and once all the plaque has been removed, the flap of the gums can be replaced with some stitches.

Although these methods are performed with every intention of removing gum disease, if aftercare is not properly maintained then your overall oral hygiene will suffer. By taking preventative steps such as brushing and flossing, and staying away from bad habits such as smoking and teeth grinding, looking after your teeth will ensure that your teeth will look after you.

About the Author

If you have a problem with gum disease, and you find the problem is getting out of control. it may be time to seek out the assistance of emergency dentists who can offer you guidance for your dental problems.