Gum disease may not necessarily be painful. For all we know we may be infected with one without being aware of it. However when our gums become painful to the touch and bleed easily, these are sure signs that we are infected with gum infections. Left untreated it could lead to a more destructive advance stage commonly referred to as periodontitis. This condition leaves us with recurring gum swelling, bad breath and generally a bad taste in the mouth. Teeth may appear longer because the gum tissues are being eaten away by the bacteria.
Further development of the disease could result to loss of teeth. The risk of atherosclerosis, stroke and heart attacks are higher. Some medical conditions may also trigger gum infections and among these are hormonal change, diabetes and decreased immunity in patients with HIV/AIDS and leukemia. These conditions may not be avoided however one can minimize attack of gum infections by properly nourishing one’s self and doing a rigorous oral hygiene.
Proper oral sanitation starts with choosing the right toothbrush. Electric brushes are more recommended however a soft bristled manual brush should be sufficient. Gently brush teeth as well as flossing it carefully to remove food particles and plaque that may have been missed by the toothbrush. A mouth rinse that does not have alcohol content is the best rinse you should use. Alcohol has a drying quality that makes it not suitable for use. Thus alcoholic beverages must also be avoided.
Periodontal disease can be treated with surgical and non-surgical procedures, based on the extent of damage it has caused. Antibiotics prescribed by the dentist may be popped to clear the infection and rid yourself of the bacterial invasion. Advanced cleaning of the surface of the teeth may also be necessary to prevent bacteria from growing back out of proportion. Smooth teeth make it hard for bacteria to cling to the surface. Root planing and scaling are the procedures for this.
Surgical periodontitis treatment will be recommended by your dentist for advanced stages of the gum disease. There is a need to reduce gum pockets or flap surgery to expose root of teeth for scaling and planing. This will prevent further recurrence of bacterial overgrowth. Soft tissue grafts may also be employed to replace the tissues that have been eaten away by the bacteria. Or bone grafting to prevent loss of teeth as it holds the teeth firmly in place. There are other surgical procedures that may be deemed necessary and it is your dentist you will be the most appropriate person to propose it to bring back periodontal health.