Gum inflammation can cause serious pain and discomfort for those affected. Although swollen gums don’t warrant an immediate trip to the dentist, it’s worth bringing it up at your next appointment. Gum inflammation is often the first sign of gum disease.
Causes of Gum Inflammation
Gum disease starts when bacteria grows unchecked inside the mouth. Unless properly removed, this bacteria can cause serious problems. In addition to infection and possible tooth loss, gum disease increases the risk of health problems like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes.
As the bacteria in plaque builds up inside the mouth, the gums become inflamed. They may appear red or swollen and bleed during or immediately after brushing or flossing. Known as gingivitis, this is typically the first sign of a problem. Although many people with gingivitis do not advance past this stage, without proper treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a much more serious type of gum disease.
Periodontitis causes the tissues and bone pull away from the teeth. This creates pockets where small pieces of food collect. Because of the small size of these pockets and their difficult location, it becomes nearly impossible for those affected to properly clean out the debris. Over time, infection occurs and the body’s immune system begins working overtime to try to fight the bacteria building up below the gum line. The bacteria in plaque combines with the enzymes the body produces to fight the infection. Unfortunately, this combination begins to breakdown the tissues and bones holding the teeth in place. The teeth may become loose and eventually fall out.
Although plaque remains the primary cause of gum disease, other factors can increase a person’s likelihood of developing periodontal disease including:
- Hormonal changes
- Illness
- Certain medications
- Smoking
- Family history of dental disease
- Poor oral hygiene
Diagnosing Gum Disease
Many people do not feel any discomfort until the later stages of periodontitis making gum disease difficult to spot. This is why it’s so important to visit your dentist at least twice a year. During your regular check-up, your dentist will inspect your gums for any sign of disease. They will also remove any plaque that’s built up around the gums, ensuring bacteria doesn’t travel below the gum line.
Only a professional can identify and diagnose gum disease and determine its level of progression. Sometimes, gum disease only affects certain teeth. Dentists have special tools which allow them to thoroughly inspect your mouth including the areas you cannot see.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease treatment focuses on promoting the gums to reattach to the teeth. For those suffering from the early stages of gingivitis, treatment includes reducing swelling and stopping the progression of disease. Depending on the stage and severity, dentists may offer treatments ranging from removing plaque and controlling bacteria growth in the mouth to surgery to restore supportive tissues.
Preventing Gum Disease
For people with gingivitis, proper plaque control can stop the progression of gum disease. In many cases, patients can reverse gingivitis by practicing good dental hygiene and visiting their dentist at least twice a year.
Brushing after every meal with LIVFRESH dental gel helps ensure fresh breath and healthy gums. This effective alternative to traditional toothpaste performs 250% better than a market leader according a study conducted by UC Irvine.
In addition to brushing and flossing regularly, other health and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of gum disease progression. Reducing stress and ensuring adequate nutrition can help improve the body’s chance of fighting off infection. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants such as nuts, green leafy vegetables, and citrus fruits may help the body repair damaged tissue.
It’s important that sufferers avoid using tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco. In addition to decreasing the effectiveness of certain treatments, tobacco users are seven times more likely to develop gum disease.
Although practicing good habits can help slow the progression of gum disease, it can’t always prevent it from occurring. Dentists believe that some people may be genetically predisposed to this condition. This is why it’s so important to tell your dentist about your family history. Depending on your risk, your dentist may want to schedule more frequent check-ups or treatments.
Quality Dental Gel Cleans Teeth Better
LIVFRESH dental gel provides an effective solution for adults looking to slow or reverse the progression of gum disease. This quality dental gel removes plaque quickly and efficiently and helps remineralize tooth enamel. Made of entirely safe and edible ingredients, LIVFRESH fights plaque on a molecular level and provides a close to professional cleaning every time you brush!