Periodontics

Gum disease is an inflammatory condition that begins at the gum line and may spread to the bone surrounding and supporting your teeth.

Gum Disease, also known as Periodontal Disease, begins with bacterial growth in the mouth; bacteria in the dental plaque, a microbial biofilm that forms on the teeth and gingiva, initiate localised inflammation of the gingiva. Almost 70% of the population will be affected by this disease at some point in their lives. Despite its prevalence, most individuals are ignorant of the condition and the complications it might create.

GUM DISEASE CAUSES

Gum Disease is mainly caused by inadequate dental hygiene. If you do not brush or floss correctly, the likelihood of bacteria buildup is increased. However, there are more explanations, including the following:

• Tobacco use (smoking or chewing) impairs the ability of gum tissues to heal.
• Certain drugs (oral contraceptives, steroids, anticonvulsants, calcium channel blockers, and chemotherapy) reduce saliva flow, necessary for tooth and gum protection. Certain medications may also result in abnormal gum tissue development.
• Teeth that are crooked or misplaced
• Hormonal changes such as adolescence, menstruation, menopause, and pregnancy may make your gums more sensitive, making them more susceptible to gum disease.
• Certain illnesses, such as cancer and HIV, impair the immune system, putting you at risk of developing gum disease. Additionally, people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease.
• Gingivitis may be caused by genetic susceptibility factors such as family history.

GUM DISEASES SYMPTOMS

• Gum bleeding while brushing or flossing your teeth
• Gums being pulled away from the teeth
• Teeth dislodging
• When you bite, the way your teeth fit together changes (malocclusion)
• Between teeth and gums, pus
• Discomfort when chewing
• Sensitivity of the teeth
• Gums that are painful, red, or swollen
• Partial dentures that do not fit properly
• Bad breath that persists even after brushing
• Formation of a deep gap between the gums and teeth
• GUM DISEASE STAGES OR TYPES

STAGES OR TYPES OF GUM DISEASE

GINGIVITIS

This is the first stage of gum disease, characterised by plaque buildup on the gums. Plaque that remains after brushing and flossing might cause irritation. You will notice that your gums are bleeding at this stage when brushing and flossing. Due to the fact that the bone remains unaffected at this time, the prospects of recovery are relatively good.

PERIODONTITIS

Gingivitis, if left untreated, may progress to Periodontitis. This stage begins to affect your bone. As a consequence of the formation of spaces between the bone and gum line, bacteria will have a place to deposit their food. Periodontitis may be avoided if you see your dentist regularly. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease.

ADVANCED PERIODONTITIS

This is the ultimate stage of gum disease, during which your bone is damaged, further loosening your teeth. This is only reversible by surgery. And if the condition is severe enough, surgery will not be able to preserve the tooth; as a consequence, your dentist will have to remove it.

GUM DISEASE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Treatment options vary according to the stage of gum disease. Additionally, it is dependent on your medical history and general condition.

Treatment options vary from non-surgical to surgical.

Among the non-surgical options are the following:

Deep Cleaning

This is done at the very early stages of gum disease development. Your dentist will clean the tooth surface below and above the gum line of plaque or tartar (which hardens the tooth surface). It is a preventative technique that assists you in avoiding gum disease.

Sizing & Root System Planning

This is also a method of thorough cleaning. The main difference is that your dentist will begin the procedure by administering local anaesthesia. Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gum line, smoothing the rough regions. Smoothing aids in the removal of microorganisms. This procedure is performed only if your dentist discovers calculus deposits behind the gums.

TREATMENT OPTION OF GUM DISEASE

Flap Surgery

This procedure involves making an incision on the gums to remove tartar. Occasionally, the uneven surface of the bone is smoothed to eliminate hiding places for the germs that cause this illness. This technique is used to close the space between the gums and the teeth.

Graft of Bone

This is a technique used to rebuild bone. The dentist will use bits of synthetic bone or your bone to replace bone that has been damaged by gum disease.

The graft of Soft Tissue

If the gums have receded, this procedure is utilised. Gums are harvested from the roof of the mouth and sewn to the recession region.

Tissue Regeneration with Guidance

When the bone that supports your teeth is removed, this procedure is performed with flap surgery. Between your bone and gum tissue, your dentist will implant a thin piece of mesh-like fabric.

GUM DISEASE PREVENTION

• Twice a day, brush your teeth (with fluoride toothpaste).
• Regular flossing is necessary to eliminate plaque from between teeth.
• Visit your dentist every six months for a regular examination and cleaning.
• Put an end to your smoking.

Frequently asked Questions