A guide to gum inflammation – The importance of treating early gum disease (gingivitis)
Gum disease can be a big threat to the health and beauty of your smile. The good news is that gum disease can be prevented. However, if it has already started, there are ways to stop this disease in its tracks before it progresses further. We offer personalised treatments at our rooms in Sunbury and Moonee Ponds.
What is gum inflammation?
Inflammation is your body’s response to an irritant. In this case, your gums are responding to the build-up of dental plaque. As this harmful bacterial film accumulates along the gumline, it irritates the gums. Your gums may hurt and look swollen and red.
Is gum inflammation gingivitis?
Gingivitis is characterised by irritated and inflamed gum tissue. It is the mildest and earliest form of gum disease.
Does gingivitis always cause symptoms?
No. Many oral conditions, including gingivitis, do not cause noticeable symptoms early in the disease process. Or, if symptoms are present, they may be subtle and easy to ignore.
What are the most common symptoms?
Inflamed gums may look darker than normal, very red, or even purple. They may look puffy due to swelling. Your gums can feel tender or sore when you touch them with your fingers, toothbrush, or floss. In fact, your gums may be so irritated that they bleed when you floss or brush. You may have a “pink” tinge in your sink or on your floss and bristles after brushing.
Why should I treat gingivitis right away?
It is important to schedule an appointment right away if you notice changes like those mentioned above, or if you are due for a hygiene visit. Remember – gingivitis can produce no symptoms whatsoever. Only one of our hygienists can confirm whether your gums are damaged and require treatment. To stop gingivitis from progressing, it is critical to get effective treatment without delay.
What happens if I don’t treat inflammation?
Without treatment, the inflamed gums begin to pull away from the teeth. This makes everything worse because spaces or pockets form between the gums and teeth. These pockets trap bacteria deep below the gumline – where your toothbrush or floss can’t reach. As bacteria thrive in these deep spaces, toxins are released. Your body’s immune system attempts to fend off these toxins. This chronic inflammatory response sets off a process that eventually leads to the erosion of the ligaments and bone that hold your teeth in place. The most serious form of gum disease, periodontitis, is characterised by the irreversible loss of tissue. This is unlike the effects of gingivitis, which can be reversed.
How do you treat inflamed gums?
The first line of defense is good oral care. We may recommend bacteria-fighting products such as Dr Hisham’s serum or ozonated water and recommend changing your home brushing and flossing routine. For more advanced inflammation, a “deep cleaning” may be required. Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) cleans below the gumline and also smooths rough root surface. When the surfaces of the teeth are smooth, the build-up of bacteria is inhibited and there is nothing for these germs to attach to. Your gums then have a chance to heal again. Depending on how your gums respond to these treatments, we can also discuss alternative methods of treatment such as the use of dental laser to remove stubborn tartar from teeth and assist in gum reattachment to teeth.
In general, prompt and effective treatment of inflammation prevents further progression of gum disease. Severe damage and the need for more aggressive procedures can be avoided. Do not ignore changes in the look or feel of your mouth, or bleeding gums. Regular preventative visits to Smile in Style are important for your gum and overall health. Phone 03 8400 4104 (Moonee Ponds) or 03 8001 6021 (Sunbury, VIC) to speak with a member of our team today.
