Development of gum inflammation, symptoms, gum inflammation treatment
We aim to summarize all essential information about gum inflammation on our site. If you're interested, check out our other articles to learn about periodontology, treatment for gum recession, and methods to address gum recession.
Definition of gingivitis and the meaning of gum inflammation?
Gingivitis in Latin simply refers to gum inflammation, a condition affecting the gum tissue around the tooth, often accompanied by bleeding.
Causes and development of gum inflammation
It’s true for everyone that we coexist with millions of bacteria in our mouths. Under healthy conditions, the number of these bacteria, or the quality of oral hygiene, is balanced by the immune defense mechanisms working alongside the teeth. In this state, there’s no clinically detectable inflammation in the oral cavity.
1. Plaque build up
The problem begins when dental plaque, continuously formed from saliva and accumulating on tooth surfaces, isn’t removed thoroughly. In such cases, plaque and the millions of bacteria that adhere to its surface can create thick deposits on all surfaces present in the mouth, promoting inflammation. This condition is referred to as gingivitis. Illustration of gum inflammation to the right.
If the plaque layer is not properly removed or scrubbed away through effective brushing, it will mineralize within a few days, leading to the formation of what is commonly known as tartar.
Tartar removal cannot be achieved through traditional brushing techniques; it requires the expertise of a dentist or dental hygienist, along with specialized instruments.
Whether on the exposed tooth surface or the tartar surface, the formation of a fresh plaque layer always promotes gum inflammation due to the bacteria that settle on it..
In summary, the cause of gum inflammation is the accumulation of plaque in the mouth and the numerous bacteria that adhere to it. Poor oral hygiene, as well as any factors that hinder proper brushing, such as:
- crowded teeth
- shifted teeth
- imprecise joints of fillings, or crowns
- tooth decay
- smoking
- used, worn toothbrush
- orthodontic appliance
- One-sided diet
Specialist's advice
Gum inflammation can easily lead to more severe gum disease when certain factors or predispositions are present, even if no pain is felt. Symptoms of inflamed gums, such as bleeding gums, should prompt you to visit our clinic in a timely manner for a thorough examination. In most cases, resolving oral inflammation is quick, simple, and results in noticeable improvement. We look forward to welcoming you!
Dr. László Lukács, Periodontist
2. The relationship between gum inflammation and medication
There are certain medications that act as risk factors in the development of gingivitis. This does not mean that they are sufficient on their own to cause the condition, but their use, combined with a small accumulation of plaque, is often enough to trigger gum inflammation or gum swelling, as they enhance the body's inflammatory response.
Drug-induced gingivitis and gum enlargement can be identified by their limitation to the interdental papilla area (the triangular gum area between teeth). Which medications may have gum inflammation as a side effect?
- Blood pressure medication ( calcium channel blockers )
- Immunosuppressant medications ( ciklosporin )
- Hydantoin derivatives
An alternative solution may be to replace these medications with alternatives containing different active ingredients. Naturally, only the treating physician can make this decision.
3.Hormonal changes can also be a cause of gum inflammation.
Hormonal changes in our body can also contribute to the development of gingivitis, primarily affecting women. This includes periods such as pregnancy and menopause. Gingivitis occurs in 60-70% of pregnant women, making impeccable oral hygiene extremely important.
4. One-sided diet, vitamin deficiency, smoking
An insufficiently varied, low-fiber diet and inadequate vitamin intake also play a role in the onset of gum inflammation. Adequate vitamin C levels are particularly important.
Smoking also negatively impacts gum health and exacerbates the severity of gum issues, including gingivitis. It irritates tissues, leading to oral mucosal inflammation and other forms of tissue degeneration.
5.Can gum inflammation have psychological causes? Is this possible?
It is well-known that our mental state and stress levels influence the body's immune system, which can affect virtually all processes occurring within the body to varying degrees. In this regard, psychological factors can play a role in the development and severity of gum inflammation.
6.Genetic predisposition, inheritance
Genetic predisposition influences the development of gum disease and gingivitis. Greater attention should always be given to recognizing gum issues in families where the condition has already occurred among relatives. Therefore, regular screening is essential in such cases.
Symptoms of gum inflammation
Unfortunately, the symptoms of gingivitis do not always cause alarm among patients, as many believe that these seemingly mild symptoms pose no serious threat to oral health. However, it should be noted that even the mildest symptoms can be signs of a much more severe, often irreversible condition that affects the entire periodontal structure, such as periodontitis.
There are also cases where patients may experience discomfort, even pain. Healthy gums can be easily distinguished from inflamed gums.
Symptoms of gum inflammation are the following:
- Gum bleeding
- Swollen gums, reddened gums
- Sensitive, sometimes even painful gums
- Presence of plaque, tartar
- Unpleasant breath
- Abscess on gum
Consequences of gingivitis
In the dental clinic, the greatest risk of untreated gum inflammation is that, in certain cases, it can spread to other periodontal tissues, leading to periodontitis and gum recession. For gum recession that damages bone to develop, additional factors must also be present. However, if these are present, the supporting structures of the tooth may suffer irreversible damage.
Treatment of gingivitis
Treating gum bleeding is as straightforward as understanding its cause. The key to successful treatment lies in removing accumulated plaque and tartar from the mouth and keeping them consistently at bay.
Of course, it’s not always this simple. When plaque must be perfectly removed around crowded teeth or poorly fitted dental restorations with imprecise margins, challenges can arise.
Treatment of gum disease at a dental clinic
Treating inflamed gums usually involves the dentist, periodontist, or dental hygienist using various manual or mechanical tools, polishers, and specialized EMS devices (guided biofilm therapy) to thoroughly remove plaque and tartar from the tooth and gum surfaces, followed by smoothing and polishing the cleaned surfaces. You can read more about tartar removal here.
At the same time, we assist the patient in learning proper brushing techniques and recommend supplementary tools to improve daily plaque removal. We demonstrate the correct use of dental floss and interdental brushes, and prescribe the use of antiseptic, anti-inflammatory mouthwash.
Treating gingivitis with medication is only indicated in cases of purulent gingivitis or painful gum ulcers. For acute gingivitis or painful gum inflammation, antibiotic therapy may be considered, but this decision is always up to a specialist. These cases can sometimes be accompanied by high fever and general symptoms.
Maintaining an inflammation-free state is also crucial when it comes to correcting or replacing old, imprecise, overhanging dental restorations. In this regard, consult with our dental colleagues, who ensure that the cleanliness and maintainability of each filling, inlay, crown, or bridge are prioritized during fabrication. We always perform precise, shoulder preparation when designing dental restorations.
Home treatment of gingivitis. What can we do for bleeding gums?
Treating gum inflammation at home is essential, complementing professional care. It’s best to view gingivitis not as an occasional, mild condition but as a persistent risk that requires daily preventive action.
However, alongside home care, do not overlook professional dental treatment, as this is the only way to detect and address hidden processes that may initially seem harmless. Advanced conditions, such as purulent gingivitis, should not be treated at home.
The best method for gingivitis is thorough tooth brushing.
Treating bleeding gums at home is most effective when thorough brushing is occasionally supplemented with an antiseptic mouth rinse. This not only helps remove plaque but also eliminates bad breath.
Interdental brush, dental floss
Using a toothbrush is essential but not sufficient for maintaining optimal oral hygiene against gum inflammation. It’s important to clean interdental spaces with dental floss or an interdental brush, as these areas are unreachable by a regular toothbrush and are critical in preventing gum inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory mouthwash
Treating inflamed gums at home can also involve the use of various mouthwashes, but these should only supplement, not replace, mechanical cleaning.
Gingivitis topical applicator
There are topical applicators that may be considered for gingivitis treatment, but similar to mouthwash, these are only supplementary aids. Plaque removal remains the primary therapeutic step in all cases.
Prevention of gingivitis
In light of the above, as with any disease, the most effective approach is prevention. This can be achieved not only by reducing the underlying factors but also by maintaining proper oral hygiene.
In addition to the hygiene steps performed at home, prevention also includes regular professional cleanings and attending screening examinations, which are recommended every six months.
Prevent gingivitis and visit Helvetic Clinics for a check-up. Preventing and treating gum inflammation in Hungary Budapest is just a phone call away. Call 053 930 1323, and we will be happy to assist you!
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Gingivitis
The gums around my crown seems swollen, purple. Can it be gum inflammation?
Crowns with imprecise margin fitting, also known as overhanging crowns, make it much harder to keep the gums clean. As a result, plaque buildup in these areas can later lead to inflammation and even bone loss. In such cases, it is crucial to replace crowns, dental restorations, and fillings with well-fitting, easily cleanable, and precise dental work.
What to do in case of gum bleeding?
Gum bleeding is a very common symptom, and there's no need to immediately assume the worst. However, it is important to have regular dental check-ups so a professional can examine the cause of the gum bleeding. In simple cases, a scaling may be sufficient, complemented by proper home oral hygiene. Gum bleeding is not a reason to pause mechanical cleaning or tooth brushing, but rather more thorough brushing is recommended.
Is gingivitis considered a focus of infection?
As long as the inflammation is localized to the gums, it is not considered a focus of infection. However, if it spreads to deeper tissues and periodontal disease develops, then it is considered a focus.
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