Gums Care Dentistry

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It starts with gum inflammation (gingivitis) and can progress to more severe forms, potentially leading to tooth loss if untreated. Here’s an overview of the different types of gum disease and their treatments at our hospital:

1. Gingivitis
   Description: Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing. It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup.
   Treatment:
   Professional Cleaning: Scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar.
   Improved Oral Hygiene: Brushing twice daily, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouthwash.
   Regular Dental Checkups: Routine cleanings to prevent progression.
   Prognosis:
   If treated early, gingivitis is fully reversible, and gums can return to health.
2. Periodontitis

   Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It causes damage to the tissues and bones supporting the teeth, leading to deeper pockets between the teeth and gums, gum recession, and tooth mobility.
   Treatment:
   Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning below the gumline to remove tartar and smooth the roots of the teeth.
   Antibiotics: May be prescribed to control infection.
   Surgical Procedures: In advanced cases, flap surgery or bone and tissue grafts may be necessary to repair damage.
   Prognosis:
   Periodontitis can be managed with proper treatment, but the damage to bone and tissue may not be fully reversible.

3. Aggressive Periodontitis
   Aggressive periodontitis is a rare but severe form of gum disease that affects young, otherwise healthy individuals. It can rapidly destroy gum tissue and bone, leading to tooth loss.
   Treatment:
   Scaling and Root Planing: Deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar.
   Systemic Antibiotics: Often needed to control bacterial infection.
   Surgical Treatment: May include flap surgery, bone grafts, or tissue regeneration to restore damaged structures.
   Regular Follow-ups: Close monitoring and maintenance are crucial.
   Prognosis:
   Aggressive periodontitis requires extensive treatment, and ongoing care is necessary to prevent further damage.

4. Chronic Periodontitis
   Chronic periodontitis is the most common form of gum disease, typically seen in adults. It progresses slowly and can cause tooth loss if not addressed. It involves inflammation, deep gum pockets, and bone loss.
   Treatment:
   Scaling and Root Planing: To clean deep beneath the gumline.
   Antibiotic Therapy: To reduce infection.
   Surgical Treatment: In advanced cases, procedures like pocket reduction or tissue grafting may be necessary.
   Prognosis:
   With regular treatment and proper oral hygiene, chronic periodontitis can be managed, but the bone damage may not be reversible.

5. Necrotizing Periodontal Disease
   This is a severe, rapidly progressing gum disease that causes the death of gum tissues, ligaments, and bone. It is often associated with systemic conditions like HIV, malnutrition, or severe stress.
   Treatment:
   Immediate Care: Cleaning and debridement of necrotic tissue.
   Antibiotics: To treat infection.
   Systemic Support: Treatment of underlying conditions like nutritional deficiencies or stress.
   Surgical Intervention: In some cases, tissue regeneration or surgery may be necessary.
   Prognosis:
   Necrotizing periodontal disease requires urgent treatment to control infection and manage the underlying health issues.
   Prevention and Maintenance
   Proper Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash.
   Regular Dental Visits: Professional cleanings and exams.
   Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, quitting smoking, and managing conditions like diabetes can help prevent gum disease.
   Early Intervention: Treating gingivitis early prevents progression to more severe forms.