Our gums say a lot about our oral health. Gums that are red, swollen or bleeding are common tell tale signs of gum or periodontal disease.
Many people suffer from gum disease. Prolonged tartar build up can eventually cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis). Gingivitis causes swollen gums that bleed easily whilst brushing teeth. Simple treatment, together with changes in oral hygiene habits, will cure and reverse this disease. In susceptible patients, gingivitis may eventually progress to a more serious condition called periodontitis.
Prevent Periodontal Disease
Periodontitis causes teeth to gradually lose support and it is the most common cause of tooth loss among adults. People are mostly unaware of that they have severe gum disease because it usually progresses without pain.
Your dentist and hygienist can detect early signs of gum disease and help prevent its progression. Patients with periodontitis are often referred to a specialist periodontist or gum specialist.
Warning Signs of Gum Disease
Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Red, swollen or tender gums
Gums that pull away from the teeth
Teeth that seem to be loose or moving away from one another
Pus between gums and teeth
Sores in the mouth
Persistent bad breath
Change in the way the teeth fit together when you bite
Change in the way dentures fit
When gums shrink or pull away, the teeth often look longer as more of the root surfaces of the teeth are exposed. This is called gum recession.
Gum Recession Treatment
Healthy gums tightly hug each tooth like a cuff to keep it in place. When gums shrink or pull away, the teeth often look longer as more of the root surfaces of the teeth are exposed. This is called gum recession.Common signs of gum recession include longer-looking teeth, loose teeth, widening gaps between teeth, or increased tooth sensitivity. Over time, receding gums may put you at a greater risk for tooth decay and chronic bad breath.
Common Causes of Gum Recession
Gum (periodontal) disease Aggressive toothbrushing Heavy buildup of plaque Injury or trauma to gum tissues Ill-fitting partial dentures Smoking and tobacco use Genetics / GenetikTreatments for Gum Recession
Gum recession poses both aesthetic and functional concerns. Unfortunately, receding gums cannot heal themselves and will require the help of your dentist or periodontist (gum specialist). If your gums recede because of gum disease, your dentist may recommend a non-surgical treatment called scaling and deep planing.
If your gum recession is severe, your dentist may recommend a gum graft.
If your gum recession is caused by aggressive brushing, your dentist or hygienist will teach you how to clean your teeth without hurting your gums.
If your gum recession is caused by ill-fitting dentures, your dentist can adjust or remake them for you.
If your teeth appear too short or if your gums rest too low on your teeth, you could be a candidate for a gummy smile treatment (Gum Contouring)