Gum diseases can happen to anyone who is facing oral health problems. The bacterial build-up on the teeth can lead to serious issues if it is left untreated. This is why it is essential to recognize the issue and intervene at the right time. Understanding everything related to gum diseases can help you in gaining knowledge about its causes, symptoms, and much more. With the right information in hand, you can reverse the dental damage and maintain your oral health. 

What are the causes of gum diseases? 

Gum diseases can occur mainly due to poor oral health. But there are many other gum disease causes which can worsen the situation, such as: 

• Plaque and buildup of tartar 

The main issue behind having trouble with your gums is plaque buildup. Having bacteria on the teeth can be bad for your oral health. This requires regular teeth brushing or flushing. However, if it doesn’t get removed then it can lead to tartar buildup. Further, it can lead to inflammation and hamper the gums and its tissues. 

• Bad oral health 

Uneven teeth brushing habits or not flossing properly can allow plaque to build up. This can cause severe gum issues. Also not visiting your dentist for regular check-ups can cause major teeth and gum damage. This is why the removal of tartar is highly essential. 

• Use of tobacco or smoking 

The use of tobacco and regular smoking can contribute to gum damage. It makes your immune system weak, blood flow gets reduced to your gums and this can slow down the healing process. Thus, your body faces greater issues in treating gum infections. 

• Changes in hormones 

Hormonal changes when an individual is facing puberty, pregnancy, and even menopause can lead to severe gum plaque. This can give rise to inflammation. For instance, women who are experiencing pregnancy can face pregnancy gingivitis because of changes in their hormonal levels. 

• Lack of nutrition 

A diet with a lack of nutrition can affect your gums. Your body lacking vitamin C can weaken gums and slow the healing process. Also, the consumption of various sugary products can lead to enhanced bacterial growth and severe plaque buildup. 

• Medications 

There are various medications like anticonvulsants, calcium channel blockers, and many others that can lead to overgrowth of the gums. Plus, there can be a reduction in saliva production which can lead to an increase in bacterial growth. 

• Stress 

Facing chronic stress can affect the immune system. This hinders the body from fighting any gum infections. Also, stress can lead to other issues like teeth grinding which can lead to poor gum health. 

• Medical issues 

There are various medical issues like diabetes which can slow down the ability of the body to manage gum infections. Also, other medical problems like HIV, cancer, etc. can slow down immunity. Plus, they can even result in severe gum issues. 

• Genetic predisposition 

Some people are prone to gum diseases genetically. Even after following great oral hygiene, there can be traits of inheriting gum issues. Due to this, an individual can face low gum immunity. Plus, the entire situation can lead to hampered gum tissues. 

What are the symptoms of facing gum issues? 

Gum disease happens in various stages. The gum disease’s symptoms depend on the severity of the situation. This is why it is essential to know all the gum disease stages, such as:

• Gingivitis 

This is considered an early stage which can even be faced by pregnant women due to hormonal changes. However, at this stage, the gum issues can be reversed. However, the common symptoms that can be witnessed during this stage can be bleeding gums, tenderness of gums, bad breath, or red or swollen gums during inflammation. 

• Periodontitis 

This is known to be an advanced stage where gingivitis leads to periodontitis when left untreated. The common symptoms of this stage involve receding gums, deep gaps between teeth and gums, loose or shifting teeth when there is a change in their position, and even pus formation which can be painful. Also, there can be discomfort and severe pain while having your meals. 

• Advanced Periodontitis 

Another stage of gum disease is advanced periodontitis which shows symptoms like major bone loss which can even lead to tooth loss. Also, gums can face painful or pus-filled infections. There is also a symptom of changes in bite which means misalignment of teeth which can cause trouble while eating or speaking. 

What treatments can be opted for for gum diseases? 

There are different gum disease treatments which can be opted by an individual depending on the situation. These treatments can be helpful in reducing gum infection and inflammation. Plus, restoring gum health and strengthening bone health is given importance. 

• Non-surgical treatments 

If you are at the early stage of gum disease, then non-surgical treatments can be opted for, such as: 

• Dental cleaning – Going to a dentist to get your teeth clean is a great solution. This will help in getting rid of plaque or tartar buildup via scaling or polishing. 
• Scaling or root planing – A cleaning process is involved in removing tartar from the teeth, and gum line, and even smoothening of tooth roots is done. Local anesthesia is used for a smooth treatment.
• Antibiotics – topical or oral antibiotics can be opted for gum diseases. They are effective in controlling bacterial infection. 
• Enhanced oral hygiene – Brushing your teeth regularly and twice can improve oral health. Also, flossing or antiseptic mouthwash can minimize plaque. 

• Surgical treatments 

If a person is facing advanced periodontitis surgical treatments are required, such as: 

• Flap surgery – This involves lifting of gums to get rid of tartar and then are fixed back. 
• Soft tissue grafts – Tissues from the palate are used or grafted to manage the exposed roots of the teeth. Or the complete restoration process is done of the receding gums. 
• Bone surgery – Reshaping and even smoothing any shallow craters. This is effective in reducing areas where there is an accumulation of bacteria. 
• Tissue regeneration – A mesh-like material is used which is then placed in the bone and gums which helps in regrowth of the bone and avoiding any unwanted tissue growth. 
• Bone grafts – There is a use of synthetic or natural bone that helps in replacing bone loss due to serious gum disease. This can help in stabilizing the teeth. 

• Adjunctive therapies 

Under adjunctive therapies, there is involvement of two options such as: 

• Laser therapy – This therapy is effective in removing inflamed tissue and bacteria. Laser therapy is better than conventional options. 
• Antimicrobial treatments – Antibiotics involving gels, chips, and even microspheres are placed on the pockets of the gums to get rid of bacteria.  

• Gum maintenance and prevention 

Prevention and regular maintenance can take you a long way: 

• Following good oral hygiene – Ensure that you are brushing, flossing, and even using mouthwash regularly. 
• Regular cleaning – Getting your teeth cleaned within 3-6 months can help maintain your gum health. 
• Managing every risk factor – Ensure that you are looking after your health issues such as diabetes, blood pressure, and much more as it can hamper your gum health.  

• Lifestyle changes and home remedies 

To avoid gum diseases it is also essential to make some mandatory lifestyle changes and adopt home remedies such as: 

• Quit smoking – It is essential to ditch smoking for better gum health. 
• Follow a good diet – Following a good diet involving vitamins C, D, calcium, and other essential nutrients can help maintain gum health. 
• Manage stress – Adopting stress management techniques such as meditation or exercise can be helpful in enhancing your immunity. 
• Go for regular dental checkups – Getting your teeth checked after regular intervals can be beneficial in detecting and managing every gum issue. 

Conclusion 

Most people neglect their oral health and this can severely affect their gums. This is why it is essential to look after your teeth and gums while you are focusing on your physical health. The above-mentioned information will help you understand everything related to gum diseases. Being aware of their causes, and symptoms and initiating a treatment accordingly can maintain your oral health. Also, you can seek help from Ludhiana Dental Centre which provides the best dental care services involving top-notch dental equipment. We have a specialized team of dentists who will provide you with the best dental solutions while making you comfortable and having a smooth dental treatment.