Gum infection is one of the most frequent oral pathologies in society, in fact, it is becoming more and more. There are some factors that favor the appearance of this infection, such as: not having a healthy diet, smoking, poor oral hygiene habits, etc.
Periodontics is the branch of dentistry that prevents, diagnoses and treats diseases of the supporting and protective tissues of the teeth (gums and bone).
The most common diseases are: gingivitis (early stage of infection), which affects the gums causing inflammation and bleeding; and periodontitis (serious infection), where the bone surrounding the teeth is already sufficiently damaged and can lead to mobility or loss of teeth. Today from our dental clinic in Malaga we want to talk about this problem and give you advice to take care of your oral health.
Causes that cause gum infection
When saliva, food and fluids come together, they give rise to bacteria. These bacteria tend to accumulate between the junction of the teeth and the gums, creating a kind of sticky, yellowish film called plaque.
Plaque attacks tooth enamel, promotes the appearance of cavities and generates bad breath. Therefore, plaque is one of the main causes of gum infection and the longer it remains on the teeth, the worse the consequences (periodontitis).
In the same way, a bad habit in dental hygiene will have the repercussions of the appearance of tartar, which is the resistant bacterial plaque around the teeth. A good daily brushing after each meal will be necessary to prevent gum infection.
On the other hand, there are risk factors that promote poor condition of the gums: tobacco use, inadequate nutrition, lack of vitamin C, having a weakened immune system, obesity, hormonal changes, among others.
Symptoms of gum infection
People who have healthy gums are obvious, since they have a pinkish color, are firm and fit perfectly with all the teeth.
However, those patients who have an infection may present unpleasant or bothersome symptoms such as:
- Bad breath
- Swollen gums
- Red or purple gums
- Bleeding gum
- Sensitive gums
- Pain and bleeding when brushing teeth
- Chewing discomfort
- Dental movements
- Tooth loss
All these symptoms of gum infection are a consequence of the bacterial plaque that accumulates in the mouth.
How is gum infection prevented?
To avoid gum infection, the first thing to prevent is the accumulation of plaque and tartar in the mouth. How is it achieved? Well, very easy, maintain a very complete daily oral hygiene.
- It is recommended to brush your teeth at least 3 times a day after each meal.
- We recommend that brushing last for a minimum of 2 minutes.
- Flossing will help remove food debris from between hard-to-reach teeth.
- The use of a good mouthwash to eliminate possible bacteria that may be circulating in the mouth.
On the other hand, it is very important to go to the dentist at least once a year to perform a dental cleaning (every 6 months in more serious cases).
In any case, going to the dentist periodically, so that professional dentists can check your dental health, is a mandatory stop. In this way, it will be possible to prevent or take timely solutions to problems that may be aggravated in the future.
At Gross Dentistas we are specialists in treatments related to gum disease, our experience guarantees our success. For us, our priority is the oral health of our patients, which is why we have the best specialists in dental implant treatments, orthodontics, Invisalign and the resolution of oral problems.
If your gums are bleeding, swollen or simply feel discomfort, we recommend that you contact us. Make an appointment, call us or write to us, and we will attend to your request as soon as possible.
Ortodoncista especializada en el sistema de ortodoncia invisible, extensa trayectoria profesional y un gran número de pacientes satisfechos con los resultados obtenidos tras la finalización de su tratamiento.