Gum Diseases and Treatment

Periodontology is a branch of dentistry that focuses on examining teeth and the surrounding tissues, diagnosing diseases that occur in these tissues, and aims to treat and maintain the health obtained after treatment. Periodontists primarily deal with the treatment of gum bleeding and gum recession issues.

What is Gum Recession?

Gum recession is the retraction of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth, exposing the tooth roots. As a result of gum recession, your teeth may become more vulnerable to cavities. You may experience increased sensitivity when brushing your teeth or eating. Your dentist can diagnose gum recession during a routine examination using a special tool called a periodontal probe to measure the extent of gum recession around each tooth.

Causes of Gum Recession:

• Using a toothbrush with very hard bristles or brushing too aggressively.
• Accumulation of dental plaque or tartar.
• Periodontal diseases (diseases of the tissues surrounding the tooth).
• Trauma or injury to your gum tissue.
• Abnormal positioning of teeth.
• Smoking or using smokeless tobacco.
• Lip and tongue piercings.
• Incorrectly placed fillings and crowns can cause gum recession.
• Poor oral hygiene contributes to gum recession, but individuals with thin gum tissue also have a genetic predisposition.

Some individuals with gum recession may experience pain or sensitivity. This is because the roots of your teeth are covered with cementum, which is not as strong as enamel. Your dentist may apply fluoride varnish or other desensitizing agents to reduce discomfort associated with gum recession.

What is Gum Bleeding?

Failure to perform regular and effective tooth brushing leads to the formation of bacterial plaque on your teeth and gums. This bacterial plaque affects the gum, causing an infection and resulting in gum bleeding. The first and most common sign of gum diseases is bleeding gums.

Causes of Gum Bleeding:

• Any bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia).
• Brushing too hard.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy.
• Improperly made fixed or removable prosthetics.
• Incorrect use of dental floss.
• Infection in the tooth or gum.
• Leukemia.
• Deficiency of vitamins C and K.
• Use of blood thinners.

When you visit your dentist due to gum bleeding, they will first ask for information about your systemic condition. After examining your teeth, gums, and mouth, they will measure the depth of your gum pockets. A panoramic X-ray will be taken, and additional tests will be performed if necessary.

Subsequently, hand tools or an ultrasonic device will be used to remove tartar and plaque. Root surface smoothing will be performed if necessary. If you have cavities, they will be treated, and if you have ill-fitting prosthetics, they will be replaced. Gum bleeding usually subsides after a comprehensive professional cleaning, as long as you maintain good oral hygiene at home. Within days or weeks, you may see your gums return to a healthy, pink state.