What Causes Gum Disease and How to Treat it?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. In this article, we will discuss the causes of gum disease and how to treat it.

Causes of Gum Disease

Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and can cause inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, this inflammation can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets where bacteria can grow.

Other factors that can contribute to gum disease include:

Smoking
Poor oral hygiene
Diabetes
Changes in hormones, such as during pregnancy or menopause
Certain medications

If you are at risk for gum disease, it is important to take steps to prevent it.

Preventing Gum Disease

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes:

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
Flossing daily
Using an antiseptic mouthwash

It is also important to see your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and treat them before they become more serious.

Treating Gum Disease

If you have gum disease, there are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of your condition. These include:

Scaling and root planing: This is a deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline.
Antibiotics: Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help eliminate the bacteria that cause gum disease.
Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove tartar and plaque buildup or to reduce the size of pockets between the gums and teeth.

It is important to follow your dentist's instructions for treatment and to practice good oral hygiene at home to prevent gum disease from recurring.

FAQs

What are the early signs of gum disease?

The early signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, bad breath, and receding gums.

Is gum disease reversible?

Early stages of gum disease can be reversed with proper oral hygiene and professional dental care. However, if left untreated, gum disease can progress and lead to irreversible damage.

What happens if gum disease is left untreated?

If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, gum recession, and other serious health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Can gum disease be caused by stress?

Stress can contribute to gum disease by weakening the immune system and making it harder for the body to fight off infections. Stress can also cause people to neglect their oral hygiene, which can lead to gum disease.

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Conclusion

Gum disease is a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated. It is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth and can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. If you have gum disease, there are several treatment options available, depending on the severity of your condition. By following your dentist's instructions for treatment and practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can prevent gum disease from recurring and protect your oral health.

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