There are many kinds of gum problems. Such troubles include merely swelling to serious conditions where tissues become damaged. Get acquainted with the many factors that cause gum problems. Know the treatment options available for people afflicted with health conditions related to the gums. Become aware of the ways on gum problem prevention.

Overview

There would be no healthy teeth if there are no healthy gums. Gums support the teeth and keep them in position. There are many kinds of problems that can be encountered concerning the overall wellness of the gums. As a matter of fact, gum problems are widespread that about half of the adults all around the world are suffering from a certain gum problem. Treatment of gum problems can be as simple as maintaining a proper dental hygiene and can be too complicated that surgery may be required.

Causes

Gum problems are mainly caused by plaque and tartar buildup. This happens when bacteria thrive all over the mouth, in between teeth and along the gum line. When tartar starts forming, the gums’ overall wellness is jeopardized.

Treatment

The treatment option employed depends on the kind of gum problem and its severity. The main objective of the treatment is to control and halt the infection.

The dentist may do thorough dental cleaning procedures such as scaling and root planing. Scaling involves the scrubbing off of tartar deposits above and below the gum line. Root planning is mainly concerned with removing the rough spots on the tooth’s root where germs thrive. Root planning also involves bacteria removal. Deep cleaning methods utilizing lasers are also now made available.

Medications may also be prescribed along with the deep cleaning procedures. Prescription antimicrobial mouth rinse which contains chlorhexidine is given to control bacteria causing gingivitis. It is also prescribed to a patient who underwent a gum surgery. Antiseptic chip is a small gelatin which also contains chlorhexidine. Like the mouth rinse, it also helps remove bacteria as well as to make the gum pockets smaller. An antibiotic gel is almost exactly the same with an antiseptic chip except that it is in the form of a gel and it contains doxycycline instead of chlorhexidine. Antibiotic microspheres are similar to antiseptic chips and antibiotic gels but they contain minocycline. Enzyme suppressants may also be administered to regulate the production of enzymes that can cause gum tissue breakdown. Oral antibiotics may also be given to address gum infection.

When gum problems are severe, surgery may be performed. There are two basic surgeries done on gums namely flap surgery and bone and tissue grafts. The former may be necessary when the gums are swollen and the latter is performed to help recover any bone or gum tissue damaged by a certain gum problem.

Prevention

Gum problems can be prevented if the buildup of plaque and tartar are minimized. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist can help prevent the occurrence of a gum problem. Moreover, mouthwashes may also be used after brushing for more effective removal of bacteria that cause plaque and tartar accumulation in the mouth.

Gum problems can be simple but they can also be exceedingly severe. The primary weapon against gum problems is the right knowledge about their causes, treatment, and prevention.