8 Types Of Gum Infections And How To Get Rid Of Them

8 Types Of Gum Infections And How To Get Rid Of Them

There are different types of gum infections that can occur. Some of the most common gum infections include gingivitis and periodontitis.

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is a type of gum infection that is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. Plaque and tartar irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. This inflammation is what we know as gingivitis.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a gum infection that is caused by plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If it is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. This is called gingivitis.

Gingivitis is usually treated with a professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist. This cleaning removes the plaque and tartar from the teeth. Sometimes, gingivitis can also be treated with special mouthwashes or toothpaste.

Gingivitis can be treated with good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing regularly and seeing a dentist for professional cleanings.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is another type of gum infection. It occurs when the tissue and bone around the teeth become infected. Periodontitis is usually caused by plaque that has not been removed from the teeth. Plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed. When this happens, pockets can form between the teeth and gums. Bacteria can live in these pockets and cause further damage to the tissue and bone around the teeth. Symptoms of periodontitis include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, as well as bad breath.

Periodontitis is a type of gum disease that is usually treated with antibiotics and deep cleanings. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat periodontitis.

This involves removing the plaque and calculus from below the gum line. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to restore the health of the gums and bone.

Dental caries causing gum infection

Dental caries, also known as cavities, are one of the most common types of gum infections. They are caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and feed on sugars. These bacteria produce acids that damage the tooth enamel.

Dental caries can be prevented by brushing and flossing regularly. This will remove the bacteria from the teeth and prevent them from causing damage. If dental caries are already present, they can be treated with fillings or crowns.

Abscessed tooth

An abscessed tooth is a gum infection that occurs when bacteria get into the tooth. This can happen due to a cavity, a cracked tooth, or gum disease. Symptoms of an abscessed tooth include pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, swelling, and bad breath.

If you think you have an abscessed tooth, it's important to see a dentist right away. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess and taking antibiotics. In some cases, the tooth may need to be removed.

Impacted wisdom teeth

One type of gum infection is impacted wisdom teeth. This happens when your wisdom teeth become stuck in your gums and can't erupt through the surface. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and inflammation. They can also lead to other problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

To get rid of impacted wisdom teeth, you will need to see a dentist or oral surgeon. They will need to make an incision in your gums and remove the tooth. In some cases, they may also need to remove part of the bone around the tooth. Recovery from this procedure can take a few weeks.

Pericoronitis

Pericoronitis is a gum infection that occurs around the wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the backmost molars that usually erupt in the late teens or early twenties. Sometimes, the gum tissue around the wisdom teeth does not grow properly and this can cause food and bacteria to become trapped underneath. This can lead to an infection.

Symptoms of pericoronitis include pain, swelling, and redness around the wisdom teeth. The gum tissue may also be tender to the touch. If the infection is left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the mouth and cause more serious problems.

Pericoronitis can be treated with antibiotics to clear the infection. The affected area may also be flushed with a sterile solution to remove any debris. In some cases, the wisdom tooth may need to be extracted if it is severely infected.

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG)

Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is a type of gum infection that causes the gums to become red, swollen, and painful. ANUG is caused by bacteria that live in the plaque on teeth. These bacteria release toxins that damage the gums and cause them to break down. ANUG can be very painful and can make it difficult to eat or drink.

ANUG is usually treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing the infection. The affected area of the gums may also be cleaned to remove any dead tissue. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.

If you think you may have ANUG or gum infection, it is important to see a dentist or other healthcare provider right away. ANUG can progress quickly and can lead to serious health problems if not treated promptly.

How to Avoid Gum Disease

B. Weiss water flossers are clinically proven to be more effective than traditional string floss at reducing gum disease. They are also easier to use and less messy. To use a water flosser, simply fill the reservoir with water, put the tip in your mouth, and turn on the power. The water will flow through the tip and clean between your teeth and gums.

Aligner Cleaner

The B. Weiss water flosser is also easier to use for people with braces or other dental devices.

Conclusion

Gum infection can be treated at home using over-the-counter medications and good oral hygiene practices. However, if the infection does not improve with home treatment, or if it gets worse, you should see a dentist or other healthcare provider for further treatment.

 

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.

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