Gum/Periodontal Diseases: Causes, Treatment Istanbul Turkey Dental Center

What is gum desease?

Gum diseases are bacterial infections that lead to the loss of the supporting tissues of teeth due to factors such as bacterial plaque and dental calculus.

Initially, only gum tissue losses are observed, and this stage is reversible when treated. However, in the advanced stages, the losses progress to the bone tissue, resulting in irreversible consequences. At this point, the goal becomes preserving the remaining tissues and halting the disease.

The initial signs of gum disease include mild bleeding and swelling of the gums, and when treated at this stage, it can be reversible. As the condition advances, it leads to more severe symptoms such as tooth mobility, a taste of inflammation, bad breath, and an inability to use the teeth for function.

When bone loss is observed, it can lead to gaps between teeth, changes in tooth position, severe tooth mobility, and the formation of abscesses. These situations are often irreversible in most cases, but in a small percentage, some degree of correction can be achieved with advanced surgical methods.

In gum disease treatments, procedures such as dental calculus removal, necessary soft or hard tissue curettage, disinfection with lasers, and/or surgical methods may be chosen.

The goal is to ensure overall oral disinfection. After necessary treatments, the golden rule is to educate the patient on the correct oral care method, motivate them to perform regular care, and call them for follow-up appointments at specified intervals.

Gum disease treatments require the cooperation of both the patient and the healthcare provider. Working together with full motivation is essential.

Gum Surgery includes various microsurgical methods, such as increasing the soft tissue around implants, cutting incorrect muscle connections (frenectomy), increasing the thickness of the gum around teeth, and increasing tooth length by gum removal (gingivectomy-gingivoplasty).

What Are the Types of Gum Diseases?

Gum diseases can have different types. The most common ones are divided into two categories: gingivitis and periodontitis.

• Gingivitis causes inflammation and irritation of the gum tissue. The gums become red, swell, and bleed. Gingivitis generally results from poor oral hygiene and can be treated effectively.
• Periodontitis is a more advanced condition characterized by significant gum and bone loss. The goal after treatment is to halt the disease. Advanced treatment methods are planned for recovering lost tissues where possible.

What Are the Causes of Gum Diseases?

Gum diseases occur due to the accumulation of bacterial deposits called plaque on tooth surfaces and along the gum line. Not brushing teeth regularly, not using dental floss, smoking, stress, hormonal changes, genetic factors, and some systemic diseases can increase the risk of gum diseases.

What Are the Symptoms of Gum Diseases?

• Bleeding gums
• Redness and swelling of the gums
• Receding gums
• Widening gaps between teeth
• Tooth mobility
• Formation of pus or abscess beneath the gums

How Can Gum Diseases Be Prevented?

To prevent gum diseases, you can follow these steps:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day.
• Use dental floss or interdental brushes to clean plaque buildup between your teeth.
• Regularly visit your dentist for check-ups.
• Avoid smoking.
• Develop healthy eating habits.
• Avoid or develop strategies to manage stress.