Gum infections are caused by oral bacteria, however, following a good regimen of brushing and flossing can help prevent infection-causing bacteria from building up inside your mouth. Poor oral hygiene can cause plaque to harden into tartar which is difficult to remove. When tartar builds up under your gums, it can lead to an infection. Here are some symptoms of a gum infection and some effective dental care treatment options.
Gum Infection Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of gum infections are red, swollen gums that typically bleed easily. The bleeding may occur when you brush your teeth or chew. Advanced gum infections may cause your gums to bleed spontaneously, or "out of the blue," for no apparent reason. Other symptoms may include receding gums, a bad taste in your mouth, pus draining from your gum tissue, painful gums, and loose teeth.
If not recognized and treated, gum infections can cause systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, and loss of appetite, as well as changes in your bite that can lead to malocclusion. You may also notice that your gums look dry and spongy, instead of firm and smooth. Advanced gum infections may also make your teeth look longer as a result of gum recession.
Dental Care Treatments For Gum Infections
Your dentist may prescribe a course of antibiotics coupled with an antimicrobial oral rinse to eliminate your infection so that your gum tissue can heal. For a severe gum infection, your dentist may recommend a consultation with a periodontist, a specialist that focuses on diagnosing and treating gum diseases.
The periodontist may recommend periodontal laser treatments to manage your infection. During this procedure, the periodontist uses a special laser to remove damaged gum tissue and to get rid of the bacteria that has accumulated under your gum line.
Periodontal laser treatments are non-invasive and do not require any incisions. More frequent teeth cleaning appointments will also help treat stubborn gum infections. In addition to traditional teeth cleanings, your dentist may recommend a type of deep cleaning treatment that is known as a scaling and root planing procedure.
If you develop any of the above signs or symptoms of a gum infection, seek prompt dental care. Doing so will help decrease your symptoms and prevent the infection from spreading. It may also help reverse existing gum tissue damage caused by your infection which will help prevent loose teeth and tooth loss.
Reach out to a local dental care clinic to learn more.
Share10 July 2023
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