What Causes Periodontitis (Gum Recession)?
It is also called periodontitis (gum recession) or gum disease. It is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue around the teeth and, if left untreated, can destroy the bone that supports an individual’s teeth. Gum recession (periodontitis) can cause loosening of teeth or tooth loss.
It is usually caused by poor oral cleaning and care. Brushing one’s teeth at least twice a day, using dental floss daily, and having regular dental examinations both reduces the likelihood of developing gum recession (periodontitis) and can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment.
What Causes Periodontitis (Gum Recession)?
Gum recession begins with the formation of plaque, a sticky film composed mainly of bacteria. If this plaque is left untreated, it can eventually progress to periodontitis. Plaque remaining on the teeth can harden below the gum line and turn into tartar, or tartar. Tartar is harder to remove than plaque and is filled with bacteria. The longer plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, the more damage it can do.
What are the Symptoms of Gum Recession (Periodontitis)?
Healthy gums are firm and pale pink in color and fit snugly around the teeth. In case of gum recession (Periodontitis), the signs and symptoms listed below are observed.
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Bright red, dark red, or purplish gums
- Bad breath
- Painful chewing
- New spaces developing between teeth
- Gap between your teeth and gums
- Gums that pull down, making the teeth appear longer than normal
- Spitting up blood while brushing or flossing
- Gums that are tender to the touch
How to Treat Gum Recession (Periodontitis)?
Gum recession treatment is performed by the dentist by thoroughly cleaning the affected area. During deep cleaning, plaque and tartar that forms on the teeth and root surfaces below the gum line are carefully removed, and the exposed root area is smoothed to make it difficult for bacteria to attach. If your dentist deems it necessary, antibiotics may also be recommended to get rid of any remaining harmful bacteria.
