Gum disease or periodontal disease is a result of infections and inflammation of the gums and bones supporting the teeth.
This is caused by plaque build-up along your gum line. Without proper oral cleaning, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other serious oral health problems.
In this article, let’s uncover what is gum disease, what is gum treatment is, and why gum treatment is important.
Whether you’ve already been diagnosed with gum disease or you’re simply interested in learning more about this common condition, this article is for you. So, let’s dive in and explore what you need to know about gum disease.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection that results from plaque build-up along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. It can lead to inflammation and bleeding if not removed through proper oral hygiene.
Over time, when it hardens it can be formed into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
Gum disease progresses through two distinct stages, starting with gingivitis and progressing to periodontitis. Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. This is characterised by red, swollen gums that easily bleed. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, gingivitis can be reversed. However, if this is left untreated this can lead to periodontitis – a serious gum disease.
Periodontitis is the advanced stage of gingivitis. This is characterised by the loss of bone and connective tissue that support the teeth. This can cause the gums to recede and form pockets, which can harbour bacteria and cause further damage to the gums and surrounding tissues.
In severe cases, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems.
Discover more about gum disease.
What is Gum Treatment?
Gum treatment, or periodontal treatment, is a set of procedures done for treating gum disease and improving the health of the gums and surrounding tissues of the teeth.
It involves scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar build-up, antibiotic therapy to control infection, and surgical interventions to repair damage to the gums and supporting bones.
The type and extent of treatment will depend on the severity of the disease and the patient’s need.
Let’s take a closer look at various types of gum treatments.
- Scaling and Root Planing. This involves a deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots. It helps to smooth the roots to prevent bacteria from reattaching.
- Antibiotic Therapy. Antibiotics may be used to treat gum disease by killing the bacteria that cause the infection. This may be in the form of a topical gel or a systemic antibiotic that is taken orally.
- Surgical Treatments: In some cases, surgical treatments may be necessary to treat gum disease. This may include flap surgery or known as pocket reduction surgery, which involves lifting the gum tissue to remove plaque and tartar, or bone and tissue grafts, which can help to replace lost bone and tissue and support the teeth.
Why is Gum Treatment Important?
Untreated gum disease can lead to serious dental health issues e.g. tooth loss; this is is why gum treatment is important for maintaining good oral health.
- Prevention of Tooth Loss. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By treating gum disease, you can prevent further damage to the gums and surrounding tissues, which can help to preserve your natural teeth.
- Improved Oral Health. Gum disease can affect not only the gums and teeth but also the overall health of the body. Research has shown that there is a link between gum disease and other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. By treating gum disease, you can reduce your risk of these and other health problems and improve your overall well-being.
- Better Appearance. Gum disease can cause the gums to recede affecting the appearance of your smile. Gum treatment can help to restore gum health and improve the appearance of your smile.
- Improved Self-Confidence. Poor oral health can affect your self-esteem and self-confidence. By treating gum disease and improving your oral health, you can feel better about yourself and be more confident in your interactions with others.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, gum disease is a common yet serious oral health condition. It can lead to tooth loss and other complications if left untreated.
Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help to prevent gum disease and main good oral health.
If gum disease is present, prompt treatment can help to stop its progression and improve the health of the gums and teeth.
By prioritising gum health and understanding the importance of gum treatment, individuals can reduce their risk of developing more severe forms of gum disease and maintain good oral health for years to come.
If you are concerned about your gum health, it is important to schedule a consultation with a dentist in Singapore, who can assess your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment for you.