What Causes Periodontal (Gum) Disease?

Have you ever wondered about the silent, painful threat in your mouth? Gum (periodontal) disease affects millions of people worldwide, even though most people don’t treat it as an oral disease or condition. Therefore, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of gum disease is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile.

In this comprehensive article, we delve deep into the world of gum disease, unraveling its mysteries and shedding light on the steps you can take to protect your precious gums.

Table of Contents

What is Periodontal Disease?

I have seen a lot of questions, like, Is periodontal (gum) disease serious? Yes, if not attended to. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It occurs because of the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Moreover, not washing, brushing, and flossing regularly can harden into tartar, which only dental professionals can remove.

Additionally, gum disease typically progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis. In its early stage, the inflammation occurs and may appear red, swollen, and bleed easily. Note that gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease if you are not treating it.

What Causes Periodontal Disease?

1. Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque to build up, leading to gum disease.

2. Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco weakens the immune system and makes it harder for the body to fight off infections, including gum disease.

3. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause can make the gums more sensitive and prone to gum disease.

4. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing gum disease due to impaired blood sugar control and a weakened immune system.

5. Medications: Certain medications, such as anticonvulsants and oral contraceptives, can increase the risk of gum disease by causing dry mouth or gum overgrowth.

6. Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to gum disease, making them more susceptible even with good oral hygiene practices.

7. Poor nutrition: A diet lacking in essential nutrients, particularly vitamin C, can weaken the immune system and contribute to gum disease.

What are Some Symptoms of Periodontal Disease?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, can manifest with various symptoms. Here are some active voice descriptions of the symptoms:

1. Bleeding gums: Gums that bleed easily, especially during brushing or flossing, are a common sign of gum disease.

2. Swollen or inflamed gums: The gums may appear red, swollen, and tender to the touch. They may also feel puffy or appear shiny.

3. Receding gums: As gum disease progresses, the gums may start to pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth roots.

4. Persistent bad breath: Gum disease can cause chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away even with regular brushing, flossing, or mouthwash use.

5. Loose or shifting teeth: As the supporting structures of the teeth become damaged, the teeth may become loose or start to change in position.

6. Changes in bite or jaw alignment: Gum disease can affect the alignment of the teeth, leading to changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.

7. Pus between teeth and gums: In advanced stages of gum disease, pockets of infection may form, leading to the presence of pus between the teeth and gums.

8. Changes in the fit of dentures: If you wear dentures, you may notice that they no longer fit properly or feel uncomfortable due to changes in the gums caused by gum disease.

9. Gum sensitivity: The gums may become more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, as well as to touch or pressure.

10. Tooth sensitivity: As the gums recede, the tooth roots may become exposed, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.

How Do You Fix Periodontal Disease?

The treatment of periodontal (gum) disease typically involves a combination of professional interventions and at-home care. Here are some active-voice explanations of the treatment options:

1. Professional Dental Cleaning:

Professional dental cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is a common treatment for periodontal gum disease. Here are the steps below:

Assessment: The dental professional will first examine your teeth and gums to evaluate the extent of the gum disease. They may use a probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums, as deeper pockets indicate more severe gum disease.
Scaling: The dental professional will use special instruments to remove the plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gum line.
Root Planing: After scaling, the dental professional will perform root planing. This involves smoothing out the rough surfaces of the tooth roots to remove any remaining bacteria and promote the reattachment of the gums to the teeth. Root planing also helps to prevent further plaque and tartar buildup.
Antibacterial Rinse: In some cases, the use of an antibacterial will further reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and promote healing.
Follow-up Care: After the professional dental cleaning, the dental professional will provide instructions on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home. This may include proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes or other dental products.

2. Antibacterial Treatments

Antibacterial treatments play a crucial role in the management of periodontal gum disease. This is done to control bacterial infections that cause inflammation and damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Here are some common antibacterial treatments:

Antibacterial Mouthwashes: These mouthwashes contain antimicrobial agents, such as chlorhexidine or essential oils, that help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth. The antibacterial mouthwashes can help control bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in the gums.
Antibiotic Therapy: In more severe cases of periodontal gum disease, antibiotics may be prescribed to target the specific bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics can be taken orally or applied directly to the affected areas. They help eliminate the bacteria and reduce inflammation. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for periodontal gum disease include doxycycline, metronidazole, and amoxicillin.
Local Antibiotic Delivery: This treatment involves placing antibiotics directly into the periodontal pockets or infected gum tissues. It can be done using antibiotic gels, chips, or microspheres. Local antibiotic delivery helps to deliver a high concentration of antibiotics directly to the site of infection, improving their effectiveness.
Systemic Antibiotics: These antibiotics are taken orally and circulate throughout the body, targeting the bacteria causing the infection. The use of systemic antibiotics is for higher or more aggressive forms of gum disease.

3. Periodontal Surgery

Periodontal surgery is a type of dental procedure performed to treat advanced stages of periodontal gum disease or to correct certain gum-related issues. Here’s an overview of periodontal surgery:

Gingival Flap Surgery: This procedure involves lifting the gums to access the roots of the teeth and the underlying bone. The periodontist will create a flap in the gum tissue to gain better visibility and access to the affected areas. Once the roots and bone are exposed, the periodontist can remove tartar, perform deep cleaning, and reshape the bone if necessary.
Pocket Reduction Surgery: In cases where deep periodontal pockets have formed between the gums and teeth, pocket reduction surgery may be performed. The periodontist will access the pockets, remove the bacteria and tartar, and then reposition the gum tissue to reduce the pocket depth. This procedure helps to eliminate the bacteria and promotes the reattachment of the gums to the teeth.
Soft Tissue Grafts: When gum recession occurs, exposing the tooth roots, soft tissue grafts may be performed. In this procedure, tissue is taken from another area of the mouth, such as the palate, and grafted onto the affected area to cover the exposed roots. This helps to protect the roots, improve aesthetics, and prevent further gum recession.
Bone Grafts: In cases where periodontal disease has caused bone loss around the teeth, bone grafts may be necessary. During this procedure, synthetic or natural bone material is placed in the areas of bone loss to stimulate new bone growth and restore the supporting structures around the teeth.
Guided Tissue Regeneration: This technique is used to regenerate lost bone and tissue around the teeth. A barrier membrane is placed between the gum tissue and the bone to prevent the gum tissue from growing into the bone defect.

4. Laser Therapy

Laser therapy, also known as laser-assisted periodontal therapy (LAPT), is a minimally invasive treatment option for gum periodontal disease. It involves the use of a dental laser to target and remove infected gum tissue, bacteria, and tartar buildup. Here’s an overview of laser therapy for gum periodontal disease:

Evaluation: Before laser therapy, we will conduct a thorough examination of your gums and teeth to assess the extent of the gum disease. This may involve measuring the depth of periodontal pockets and taking X-rays to evaluate bone loss.
Local Anaesthesia: In most cases, we use local anesthesia to numb the treatment area and ensure your comfort during the procedure. However, laser therapy is generally less invasive and causes less discomfort compared to traditional gum surgery.
Laser Treatment: The dental professional will use a specialized dental laser to target and remove the infected gum tissue and bacteria. The laser energy selectively removes the diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. It can also kill bacteria and promote the regeneration of healthy gum tissue.
Scaling and Root Planing: After the laser treatment, the dental professional may perform scaling and root planing. This involves removing plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth surfaces and root surfaces to promote healing and prevent further gum disease progression.
Healing and Follow-up: Following laser therapy, the treated area will begin to heal. The laser energy helps stimulate the growth of new gum tissue and blood vessels, promoting faster healing. You may have to use antibiotics or antimicrobial mouthwashes to further control bacterial growth. We will schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure the success of the treatment.

5. Bite Adjustment

Bite adjustment procedures, also known as occlusal adjustments, can be a part of the treatment plan for gum periodontal disease. These procedures aim to correct any imbalances or irregularities in the way your teeth come together when you bite or chew. By improving the alignment and distribution of forces on your teeth, bite adjustment procedures can help alleviate stress on the gums and supporting structures, promote healing, and prevent further damage.

Based on the evaluation and analysis, your dentist or periodontist may recommend making adjustments to your bite. This can involve reshaping the biting surfaces of certain teeth, smoothing out rough areas, or selectively adjusting the height of specific teeth to achieve a more balanced bite.

Typically, dentists perform bite adjustment procedures alongside other periodontal treatments, such as professional dental cleaning, scaling and root planing, or gum surgery. By optimizing the bite, these procedures can help reduce excessive forces on the gums, alleviate inflammation, and promote healing.

6. Ongoing maintenance

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for managing gum disease. Your dentist or periodontist will develop a personalized maintenance plan to monitor your oral health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.

7. Oral Hygiene Practices

Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Use gentle, circular motions, and take your time to thoroughly clean each tooth.
Flossing: Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. Use a gentle back-and-forth motion, sliding the floss between each tooth and wrapping it around the sides. Be careful not to snap the floss against the gums, as this can irritate them.
Interdental Cleaning: In addition to flossing, consider using interdental brushes, water flossers, or other interdental cleaning tools recommended by your dentist. These can help clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth and along the gumline.
Antimicrobial Mouthwash: Rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist. This can help reduce bacteria and control plaque buildup. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for the recommended duration before spitting it out.
Proper Technique: Ensure you are using the correct technique for brushing and flossing. Your dentist or dental hygienist can demonstrate the proper technique and guide you on how to effectively clean your teeth and gums.
Regular Dental Visits: Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Your dentist or periodontist will monitor the progress of your gum disease, perform necessary treatments, and provide guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene.
Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can worsen gum disease and hinder the healing process. Talk to your healthcare provider for support and resources to help you quit smoking.

8. Lifestyle Changes

Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. A healthy diet can support gum health and overall oral health.

Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to gum disease. Quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and controlling underlying health conditions like diabetes can help improve gum health and support the effectiveness of treatment.

Conclusion

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health condition that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Moreover, it is primarily caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Additionally, poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, hormonal changes, diabetes, medications, genetics, and poor nutrition can contribute to the development of gum disease.

The symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, swollen or inflamed gums, receding gums, persistent bad breath, loose or shifting teeth, changes in bite or jaw alignment, pus between teeth and gums, gum sensitivity, and tooth sensitivity. However, not all individuals with gum disease experience the same symptoms, and the severity can vary.

Treatment for gum disease typically involves a combination of professional interventions and at-home care. For instance, professional dental cleaning, antibacterial treatments, periodontal surgery, laser therapy, bite adjustment, and ongoing maintenance are common treatment options. Additionally, good oral hygiene practices at home, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouthwash, are crucial for managing gum disease. Furthermore, lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet, managing stress, and controlling underlying health conditions, can also support the effectiveness of treatment.

Early detection and intervention are essential to the successful management of gum disease. Therefore, regular dental check-ups, open communication with dental professionals, and proactive oral care are essential for maintaining healthy gums and overall oral health. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can take control of their gum health and prevent the progression of gum disease.

Periodontal Disease FAQs

Can periodontal diseases be cured?

No, but one can manage and control it with appropriate treatment and ongoing maintenance. The goal of treatment is to halt the progression of the disease, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the gums and supporting structures of the teeth.

Professional interventions, such as dental cleanings, scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery, and laser therapy, can help remove plaque, tartar, and infected tissue and promote healing. These treatments, combined with good oral hygiene practices at home, can significantly improve the condition of the gums and prevent further damage.

Can I save my teeth if I have periodontitis?

Yes, it is possible to save your teeth if you have periodontitis. The success of saving your teeth will depend on various factors, including the severity of the periodontitis, your overall oral health, and your commitment to treatment and oral hygiene practices.

Will saltwater rinses help periodontitis?

Saltwater rinses can provide some temporary relief and help reduce inflammation associated with periodontitis, but they are not a substitute for professional treatment. Here’s how saltwater rinses can be beneficial:

Reducing Bacterial Growth.
Soothing Inflammation.
Promoting Healing.

To use a salt water rinse, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat this a few times a day, especially after meals or when you feel discomfort.

However, it’s important to note that saltwater rinses alone cannot cure periodontitis.