Gum Diseases
Gum disease is a group of conditions that affect oral health and are characterized by inflammation of the gums. Gums are the tissues that support and protect the teeth, so keeping them healthy is critical to overall oral health. If left untreated, gum disease can cause serious problems that can lead to tooth loss.
What is Gum Diseases?
Gum disease is a condition that begins with inflammation and infection of the gums and can lead to more serious tooth and gum problems if left untreated. These diseases are usually caused by dental plaque and tartar building up on the gums.
How to Prevent Gum Diseases?
- Regular Teeth Brushing: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Use dental floss: Use dental floss daily to clean between teeth.
- Mouthwash: Support oral hygiene by using antiseptic mouthwashes.
- Balanced Diet: Make sure you eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals.
- No Smoking: Avoid cigarettes and tobacco products.
Types of Gum Diseases
- Gingivitis:
It is a mild inflammation of the gums. It manifests itself with symptoms such as bleeding gums, redness and swelling.
Symptoms: Bleeding gums during tooth brushing, bad breath, mild swelling and redness of the gums
Treatment: Regular tooth brushing and flossing, professional cleaning by the dentist and attention to oral hygiene. - Periodontitis:
It is the advanced form of gingivitis and is characterized by the spread of the gums to deeper tissues. The supporting tissues around the teeth are also affected.
Symptoms: Continuous bleeding of the gums, loosening of the teeth, receding gums, gaps between the teeth, bad breath.
Treatment: Deep dental cleaning, antibiotic treatment, and surgical intervention may be necessary. In addition, regular oral hygiene and dental check-ups are important. - Gum Recession:
This is the condition in which the gums recede from the teeth. The root parts of the teeth are usually exposed, which can lead to sensitivity and aesthetic problems.
Symptoms: Increased sensitivity in the teeth, gum recession, and the appearance of the roots of the teeth.
Treatment: Gum grafts, appropriate oral hygiene practices, and dentist recommendations are necessary to stop gum recession.
Treatment of Gum Diseases
Treatment of gum disease varies depending on the severity of the disease:
- Gingivitis: It is usually treated with good oral hygiene. After the cleaning performed by the dentist, personal oral care should be taken care of.
- Periodontitis: Deep dental cleaning (measuring and cleaning the root surfaces), antibiotic treatment and surgical intervention may be required.
- Gum Recession: Gum grafts or other surgical methods may be applied. In addition, regular dental care and oral hygiene should be taken care of.
Since gum diseases can lead to serious problems affecting oral health, early diagnosis and treatment are important. Your dentist will provide you with the most appropriate treatment and care recommendations to protect the health of your gums and prevent possible diseases.