Gum disease is an inflammatory disease that affects other tissues that support the teeth, such as the gums and jawbone. 70% of tooth loss in adults is caused by gum disease. If only the gums are inflamed, this is called Gingivitis. If the inflammation spreads to other tissues and bone loss occurs, it is called Periodontitis and the damage it creates is irreversible.
What are the symptoms of gum disease?
Bleeding in the gums (may occur during brushing, when biting something hard, or spontaneously in advanced cases)
Red, tender and swollen gums
Bad bad breath
Inflammation around the teeth
Gum recession, teeth lengthening
Spacing between teeth
Swaying teeth
What are the causes of gum disease?
The most important cause of gum disease is "microbial dental plaque", which contains a lot of bacteria that accumulates on the surface of the teeth and gums as a result of not brushing the teeth. This soft plaque can be easily cleaned with the help of a toothbrush, dental floss and interdental brushes. However, when this plaque is left uncleaned, harmful products released by microorganisms in the plaque cause inflammation in the gums and progresses, causing the gums to recede along with the bone melting. Plaque left uncleaned combines with saliva over time, hardens and forms tartar. At this point, it is no longer possible for the individual to remove tartar with normal methods, and they need to seek professional help from a dentist. The formation and progression of gum disease accelerates in situations where immunity decreases, general health deteriorates, hormonal levels change such as during puberty and pregnancy, or diabetes. Genetic predisposition also increases the risk of developing this disease.
Prevention and treatment of the disease
Regular oral care and routine dental check-ups provide the opportunity to prevent this disease or catch it in its early stages.
Early treatment of the disease is possible by cleaning the tooth surface to remove accumulated plaque, tartar and stains. In cases where the disease progresses, periodontal surgery is the next step of treatment. Surgical treatment includes periodontal surgery performed under local anesthesia to treat enlarged gums, deep pockets that make oral care difficult and osteoporosis. During these procedures, biocompatible materials such as laser, bone grafts and membranes can be used when deemed necessary.
What the treatment provides to the person
- Healthy, non-bleeding, firm gums are obtained
- Bad breath is eliminated
- Progression of the disease is prevented
- Inflammation stops
- Damage to the tissues caused by inflammation is repaired
- The person gains teeth and gums that can provide oral hygiene
