Gum infections, also known as periodontal disease, are common oral health issues that can lead to severe complications if left untreated. These infections can cause pain, swelling, bleeding, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, with timely and proper gum infection treatment in Vista, these infections can be managed and prevented from worsening. For residents of Vista, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for gum infections is essential to maintaining a healthy smile.
What is Gum Infection?
A gum infection occurs when bacteria build up along the gum line, causing inflammation and infection in the gum tissues. It starts as gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, and can progress to periodontitis if not addressed. Gingivitis is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums, while periodontitis can lead to the loss of bone around the teeth and even tooth loss.
Symptoms of Gum Infection
Recognizing the signs of a gum infection early is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include swollen, red, or tender gums, bleeding gums (especially when brushing or flossing), persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth, loose teeth or teeth that appear to be shifting, pain or discomfort while chewing, and receding gums, exposing more of the tooth surface. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible.
Causes of Gum Infections
The primary cause of gum infections is the accumulation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, and if not removed by regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist. Other contributing factors include poor oral hygiene habits, smoking or chewing tobacco, hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause), medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune diseases), medications that reduce saliva flow, and genetic predisposition to gum disease.
Gum Infection Treatment Options
There are several effective treatment options available for gum infections, depending on the severity of the condition. The first step in treating a gum infection is to remove plaque and tartar buildup. A professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist is necessary to clean below the gumline, eliminating the source of infection. For more advanced gum infections, scaling and root planing may be required. This deep cleaning procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the roots of the teeth and smoothing the tooth roots to help the gums reattach to the teeth. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help control the infection. These can be in the form of oral antibiotics or antibiotic gels placed directly into the gum pockets. If the gum infection has progressed to periodontitis, surgery may be needed to reduce the size of the pockets between the teeth and gums. This allows for better cleaning and healing of the gums. Laser treatment is a minimally invasive option for gum infection treatment. The laser is used to remove infected tissue and promote healing, helping to reduce discomfort and recovery time.
Preventing Gum Infections
While gum infections can be treated, prevention is always the best approach. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily to remove plaque between your teeth, visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, avoiding smoking or using tobacco products, and maintaining a healthy diet to support your immune system can all help prevent gum infections.
Gum Infection Treatment in Vista
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a gum infection or have been diagnosed with gum disease, it’s important to seek professional care as soon as possible. Dr. William J. Cho, DDS, MS, offers comprehensive gum infection treatment in Vista, tailored to your specific needs.
Don’t let gum infections affect your health and smile. Call Dr. William J. Cho, DDS, MS at (760) 720-7372 today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward healthier gums and a brighter smile.
